A Village At War: Earlston 1914 - 1918 Paperback – 20 April 2021

Great local stories from the town I was brought up in...

Even the smallest villages across Britain have memorials listing those who died in WWI. They are often situated centrally, passed regularly in our daily comings and goings, but we seldom stop to reflect on the lives behind the names, although many share the surnames of our friends and neighbours.Almost 9 million British Empire troops were mobilised in WWI and nearly 1m of them lost their lives. A further 2m were wounded. I really recommend this book as the perfect way to spend a short time inhabiting the world these very young men exited so early.This book brings one village's war memorial names to life and equally the early 20th century world they inhabited. Rather than the usual top down view of war that sets it at a distance, battles and Government initiatives are described from the perspective of the volunteers and villagers they impact. Letters home, newspaper reports, even the titles of the jobs the volunteers vacated create a very real portrait of those times.The mobilisation efforts of the Government and the fates of the young men are explained in a very matter of fact and considerate way that brings out real experiences and motivations. The context in which each died is explained, with just the right amount of information, and surprising to learn how many died of illness before even reaching the front. Other tales are a damning indictment of the leaders' poor strategy and incompetence.While this is a particular village, and can be viewed singularly, particularly since google can provide the opportunity to explore it and the neighbouring area as it is today, this book can be enjoyed by anyone across the UK, since the young men are typical of those from every village across the country.I do have to own up to growing up in this village and indeed going to school with the author, but I believe that has only had a slight influence on my admiration for the book.

This was an exceptionally well researched and beautifully written book. It covers the social effects of the businesses & people of the community as well as the personal sacrifice of families & individuals.I would recommend this book to anyone as it covers so many aspects of life.

Excellent read, especially to myself as I live in Earlston and can relate to the names mentioned as there are still descendants living in the village. Well done Jeff on your research into the stories and fate of the brave men & women of the village

Purchased for our local Family History Society. It is full of names that will be of use to people interested in the families of that village

I bought this for my dad who served in the army and was born in Earlston and he was absolutely flabbergasted over this book. 100% worth the read!

An incredible and insightful look in the the past of my home village, well worth the read, lots of things I was unaware of and that make me proud to be from the toon