The Independence Light Aircraft Carriers. (Professional Reading).

Faltum, Andrew. The Independence Light Aircraft Carriers. The Nautical & Aviation Publishing Company of America, 1250 Fairmont Ave., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. 2002. 160 pp. Ill. $34.95.

Continuing this author's surveys of U.S. Navy WW II carriers--we reviewed his book on the Essex-class earlier--this latest effort focuses on the often overlooked CVL class, lost between the big CVs and the smaller, colorful CVEs. The Independence-class ships were commissioned in 1943 out of a need to complement the Essex types. The new class used light cruiser hulls, which were already under construction. The CVLs were fast, well-armed and could share the rigors of war with their larger sisters.

Using the chronological historical approach, the author details early CVL action--the Marcus, Wake and Gilberts campaigns of 1943-and continues through the late--war march across the Pacific. Postwar activities include service during the Korean War and in the French and Spanish navies. The French used American light carriers in Southeast Asia during the late 1940s.

Various appendices give technical details and short biographies of each CVL. Appendix C is a welcome reference with graphic details of hull camouflage patterns. Good photo coverage and maps complete this useful book's design package.