This book challenges the widely held myth surrounding the 1942 Kokoda Campaign by presenting a factual account based on extensive research. Peter Williams, utilizing Japanese sources often overlooked in Australian military history, aims to correct the popular narrative that Australian soldiers were vastly outnumbered and suffered immense losses. The book focuses on the strategic and tactical decisions of the Japanese forces, revealing that Australian troops were frequently not outnumbered. By combining narrative with rigorous analysis, Williams offers an undistorted perspective on the events of the campaign.

This book is regarded as an important contribution to understanding the Kokoda Campaign, offering a counter-narrative to the established myth. By focusing on Japanese strategic and tactical perspectives and utilizing extensive research, it provides a more nuanced and accurate picture of the events. The work is noted for its combination of narrative and analysis, aiming to present an undistorted account for those interested in the historical truth of the 1942 campaign.