This book about what life was like in Montreal during the First World War is extremely well researched and well written. This particular point of view in Canadian history is rarely touched upon and has many misconceptions about it. After reading this book I feel like I have a much better understanding of my own culture as a French Canadian and my ancestors place in history as well as a much better awareness of what soldiers went through. This is a timely subject in November as we come together to remember our Veteran’s. In our current pandemic times it should also be noted the role Influenza played in WW1 making this very relatable.

Authors Terry Cobb and Alexander Maavara show us the rich history of Montreal and life for English and French Canadian citizens and the contrasts in experiences they had before and during the war. Newspapers brought home what soldiers were going through during some of the significant battles Canadians took part in, the descriptions of the brutality that was going on in Europe is contrasted with what life was like back home for the average citizen of Montreal. Hockey, language, religion, unions, poverty, politics, Influenza, Inscription, it’s all touched upon.

I learned a lot form this book and highly recommend it to anyone interested in Canadian or WW1 history. It’s well written and very interesting and I’ve gained a whole new respect for the men and women who lived through WW1.

This book covers the recruitment, deployment and action of men from Montreal during World War I. The book is well researched and written. While most people think that these troops were primarily Canadian French Canadians there were a lot of individuals who were Irish Catholic and those actually born in England and the United States. It also covers the challenges for those left in the city with so many men of fighting age gone from the scene. Overall, well worth the read.

I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon, Facebook and my nonfiction book review blog.