O.K., it's a little dated. And yes, it is Euro-American centric. Even the author admits that the definition of "battles that changed history" is a bit subjective. That said, this easy to read book really popped my eyes opened to a few battles (and wars) that I'd never even heard of, and the consequences of them. The book examines 16 battles (or wars) from Alexander the Great's ride through Persia in 331 BCE to the Battle of Midway in 1942. The author gives the background of engagement and of the major players in each battle. Then he gives outcome of the conflict and states his opinion on why that particular conflict was so important.
More than just a mechanical listing of who did what to who, this book offers interesting analysis on some of the causes and outcomes of pivotal moments in history.
Lightweight, but a good starting point for historical studies. Fletcher's writing is casual and easy to understand. It's also how I like my war - in the past.
(Review copyright 1998 by J.C. James)