'Notes of a Camp Follower on the Western Front' Summary

Following the tragic death of his son, Oscar, at Ypres during World War I, renowned novelist E.W. Hornung volunteered to work in a YMCA canteen on the Western Front. His motive? To be near the place where his son died and offer comfort to the young soldiers fighting for their nation. He started by helping in a canteen, offering cocoa and biscuits to weary troops, but his commitment grew, culminating in the establishment of a lending library just miles away from No Man's Land. 'Notes of a Camp Follower on the Western Front' is Hornung's heartfelt account of his time on the frontlines. His writing is infused with compassion and a deep respect for the soldiers, capturing their bravery, resilience, and camaraderie in the face of immense hardship. He describes his experiences with vivid detail, bringing the reader into the trenches, the chaotic battlefields, and the quiet moments of respite. Despite the horrors he witnessed, Hornung's perspective is marked by a profound belief in the justness of their cause and the heroism of the men fighting for their nation. His book offers a unique and intimate look at the Western Front, exploring the impact of war on both the individual and the collective.