Although much has been written about the German Navy by English-speaking authors, few of their books grasp an understanding of the technical side of German ship-building programs. This new volume on German light cruisers is the latest in a series of books by German naval historians Gerhard Koop and Klaus-Peter Schmolke that fills this gaping void. The authors take full advantage of primary research materials to produce a quality, in-depth technical volume that strips away misinformation and provides a balanced understanding of the light cruisers and their mission. The major ship components--hull, armor protection, main armament, secondary armament, etc.--are followed by each ship"s chronological history. Scores of photographs and line drawings, detailed indexes, and an impressive bibliography complete this notable volume.