The Desert Rats earned their famous nickname fighting against Axis forces in North Africa. At first the name referred to troops of the 7th Armoured Division, but later expanded to cover all Commonwealth troops: British, Australian, New Zealand and Indian, who fought in the desert from 1940-43. This book opens with a look at the unique conditions that the Desert Rats encountered in the Western Desert, then examines the recruitment and training of the men, and the evolving fighting methods and training of what eventually became the Eighth Army. Using photographs and newly commissioned artwork, the book also covers the distinctive dress, equipment and weapons carried into battle by the Desert Rats.

Tim Moreman is a freelance writer and academic. For several years he lectured in the Department of War Studies at King's College London, from where he obtained his PhD. He also held a six-month appointment as Resident Historian at the Army Staff College at Camberley. His primary interests include the British-Indian Army during the 19th and 20th centuries, counter-insurgency, and the British and Commonwealth armies during World War II. In addition to a significant number of articles and papers, Tim has written two major books: a study of the Indian Army on the North-West Frontier 1849-1947, and a book on the war in Burma and Malaya 1941-45. In recent years he has also worked for the new Dictionary of National Biography and the Australian War Memorial, as well as acting as a historical adviser for the BBC and Carlton Television. He is based in Somerset, UK.

Steve Noon was born in Kent, UK, and attended art college in Cornwall. He's had a life-long passion for illustration, and since 1985 has worked as a professional artist. He has provided award-winning illustrations for the publishers Dorling Kindersley, where his interest in historical illustration began. Steve has illustrated over 20 books for Osprey.