". . . (an) engaging chronicle of Canada & Canadians in the First World War . . . a social history with the sweep of a novel. That the story is factual -- an account of a nation forged in blood & fire -- adds to its power & allure." " . . . (a) marvelous cast of characters . . . . takes history out of its neat categories & puts us into contact with what it must have felt like to be there . . ." Partial contents: up at Blue Sea Lake; "an Irish Cinderella"; the view from Basil Mansions; the Belgian canal boat fund; "an odour of genius"; the destruction of General Alderson; the education of Grace MacPherson; Ave Atque Vale. Photos. Sources. Index.