On Shaggy Ridge details the dramatic but little known story of the 1943-44 Ramu Valley campaign in New Guinea. The book follows the Australian Seventh Division from the pivotal battle at Kaiapit through to the final assault on Shaggy Ridge. As if defending the ramparts of a medieval fortress, the Japanese entrenched themselves along this razorback ridge and resisted the Australian advance for over four months.

Drawing on extensive records that are brought to life by the vivid recollections of over 140 veterans, and illuminated by the author's own journeys to the region, Phillip Bradley brings the battlefield to the reader. The detailed story unfolds as it took place with maps and dramatic photos helping to complement the text. Without neglecting the key strategy and command issues, the book has been written from the soldier's viewpoint allowing the author to take readers on an unforgettable journey to the front line. Those who were there will never forget Shaggy Ridge, and now those who have only heard the name can learn the reason why this campaign was so important.

With a lifelong interest in military history, work in Papua New Guinea led Bradley to the battlefields on the Finisterre Ranges, where his father had fought in World War Two. A desire to learn more about this campaign led to eight years of research and interviews culminating with On Shaggy Ridge. The book contains previously unpublished recollections from both the Australian and Japanese veterans who were there, giving new insights, and in many cases the only insights, on key episondes during the campaign.

Although this book will be of major interest to military historians, military enthusiasts, and veterans of the campaign, it will capture the imagination of any reader who is interested in a great story of bravery and endeavour against seemingly impossible odds.