One of the most powerful memoirs ever written about the First World War. The Author served 1916 – 1919 with the Black Watch of Canada. Bird’s memoir captures the most poignant side of the war, the sacrifices, the humour, the rats and the terror, so unique to the First World War. His experiences were not only physical but also ethereal. His beloved brother, Stephen, who was killed near Ypres in 1915 played a critical role in Will’s survival and “appears” to save him from death on more than one occasion. Stephen told Will in 1914 “if I don’t come back maybe I’ll find a way to come and whisper in your ear.”

by Will. R. Bird