The First World War in 100 Objects

With the 100th anniversary of the start of the WWI comes an exposition of 100 relics from those four dark years. Hughes-Wilson (Puppet Masters: The Secret History of Intelligence), in collaboration with historian Nigel Steel (The Battlefields of Gallipoli), brings something fresh and innovative to the military history genre. It's a retelling of the Great War through objects now housed in London's Imperial War Museum. Moving chronologically, the authors expound on beautifully photographed objects with thorough narratives explaining the greater significance of the objects, as well as shorter pieces that provide intimate information about the object itself. Items include an Italian trench helmet; a French phrase book, for British soldiers abroad; a trench mortar from Vimy; and German shoulder straps, taken from captives. The text packs in an impressive amount of detail, making it seem fussy at times, but the explanations of facts and events are always clear. Altogether, this is a stunning read that is exciting in its depth, scope and personal feel. After seeing and reading about objects touched, used, cherished and hated by those who experienced the war, it will be impossible not to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the struggle that "truly... still shapes the world in which we live." (June)