The Coldest Winter examines the Korean War, focusing on the critical decisions and brutal realities faced by American and Chinese forces.

David Halberstam's "The Coldest Winter" is widely regarded as a comprehensive and deeply researched account of the Korean War. Critics often praise its narrative power and its ability to convey the human cost of the conflict. The book is noted for its detailed examination of the strategic blunders and the resilience shown by soldiers on both sides. It is considered an essential read for understanding a pivotal moment in 20th-century history.