Hugh Cecil (1) (1941–2020)

This book is a compilation of 61 papers or essays on the experiences of defined groups or even an individual during the First World War. It is broken down into 11 parts. I found the book interesting due to the narrow focus presented by the authors of the essays. Most of the authors are known to me; some are not. I have read 300 or so books on WWI, so I do have a solid understanding the very facets of the war. However, by focusing on a very narrow area the authors are able to convey the war experience of the subject in 10-15 pages.

Of the 61 topics, probably 5 were of little or no interest to me; the remainder I thought worthwhile. The book is long....936 pages all included. So it is not a fast read. However I found it worth plowing through. I would suggest getting it from a library rather than purchasing it. This did not seem to me to be a book I would read again, nor use as a reference. Perhaps the bibliography or footnotes might provide some further reading.

I would say you must have a strong interest in WWI to get through this book.… (mehr)