I have read countless books covering the 1st and 2nd World Wars.
This book by Les Carylon is brilliant.
It covers the experiences of the Australian Troops during WWI and uses their own letters and diaries to let you know their thoughts before, during and after the battles.
Their experiences are contrasted with those of the Generals and other officers who are ordering these men to do the impossible from the safety of their bunkers.
You are often introduced to a soldier in one battle who survives against the odds only to be killed in a later battle.
Althugh concentrating on the Auatralian Troops, the actions and fates of the British, French, Scottish, Canadian and Welsh troops who fought beside them are also detailed.
There is no glossing over of the facts so this makes it an emotional book that will leave you sad and angry.