Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads

A Volunteer Poilu   By: (1888-1968)

Book cover

A Volunteer Poilu is a heartfelt and poignant memoir written by Henry Beston, detailing his experiences as a volunteer soldier in the First World War. The author vividly describes his journey from being a peaceful student to a soldier fighting in the brutal trenches of France.

Beston begins his memoir with a captivating and personal introduction, providing readers with an insight into his motivations for enlisting in the war effort. His love for France and admiration for the French people serve as the driving force behind his decision to join their ranks and fight alongside them.

The author's writing style is beautifully descriptive, capturing the horrors of war while also showcasing the resounding resilience and camaraderie among the troops. Through his words, we can almost hear the thunderous explosions, feel the piercing cold, and smell the acrid stench of death that permeated the trenches. Beston's ability to paint such vivid pictures with his words is truly remarkable.

One of the most remarkable aspects of A Volunteer Poilu is Beston's ability to convey the emotional toll that war takes on those involved. He delves deep into the psychological impact, exploring the fear, anger, and despair that plague soldiers on the front lines. Beston's introspective musings on the meaning of war and the futility of such violence are thought-provoking and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

What sets this memoir apart from others is Beston's unique perspective as an American serving under French command. This perspective offers a fresh and often overlooked angle on the war, shedding light on the lesser-known roles and contributions of foreigners who volunteered to fight alongside their allies.

While the memoir is primarily focused on Beston's experiences as a soldier, there are also glimpses into his personal life outside the war. These interludes humanize the author, reminding us that despite the horrors he witnessed, he was still an ordinary man with hopes, dreams, and loved ones waiting for him at home.

Overall, A Volunteer Poilu is a captivating and emotionally charged memoir that provides a deeply personal account of an often romanticized period in history. Beston's writing style is evocative, and his storytelling ability is both engaging and poignant. This memoir serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during the Great War and is highly recommended for those interested in a more personal perspective on this tumultuous period.

First Page:

A VOLUNTEER POILU

by Henry Sheahan

To Professor Charles Townsend Copeland of Harvard University

Dear Copey,

At Verdun I thought of you, and the friendly hearth of Hollis 15 seemed very far away from the deserted, snow swept streets of the tragic city. Then suddenly I remembered how you had encouraged me and many others to go over and help in any way that we could; I remembered your keen understanding of the Epic, and the deep sympathy with human beings which you taught those whose privilege it was to be your pupils. And so you did not seem so far away after all, but closer to the heart of the war than any other friend I had.

I dedicate this book to you with grateful affection after many years of friendship.

Henry

Topsfield, September, 1916

Preface

I have ventured to call this book A Volunteer Poilu principally because we were known to the soldiers of the Bois le PrĂȘtre as "les Poilus AmĂ©ricains." Then, too, it was my ambition to do for my comrades, the French private soldiers, what other books have done for the soldiers of other armies. The title chosen, however, was more than complimentary; it was but just. In recognition of the work of the Section during the summer, it was, in October, 1915, formally adopted into the French army; a French officer became its administrative head, and the drivers were given the same papers, pay, and discipline as their French comrades... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books