In 'The Dispatch-Riders: The Adventures of Two British Motor-cyclists in the Great War' by Percy F. Westerman, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the chaos and danger of World War I. The book is written in a vivid and descriptive style that immerses the reader in the experiences of two young British motor-cyclists serving as dispatch-riders on the front lines. Westerman's attention to detail and historical accuracy provide a valuable insight into the realities of war during this turbulent period in history. The literary context of the book reflects a combination of adventure, war fiction, and historical narrative, making it a compelling read for fans of military literature. The fast-paced narrative and engaging plot keep readers on the edge of their seats as they follow the characters through the trials and tribulations of war. Percy F. Westerman, as a prolific writer of boys' adventure stories, drew inspiration from his own experiences serving in World War I. His firsthand knowledge of military life and his passion for storytelling are evident in the authentic depiction of war in 'The Dispatch-Riders'. Westerman's dedication to providing young readers with thrilling and educational tales of courage and heroism shines through in this novel. I highly recommend 'The Dispatch-Riders: The Adventures of Two British Motor-cyclists in the Great War' to anyone interested in historical fiction, war literature, or captivating adventure stories. Percy F. Westerman's gripping narrative and insightful portrayal of war make this book a must-read for those seeking a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Today, battle tends to be characterized by advanced technologies. Little more than a century ago, in World War I, wartime exploits involved hand-to-hand combat and mustering up the guts to look your enemy right in the eye. This exciting battlefield tale follows the adventures of two soldiers tasked with the responsibility of carrying dispatches between regiments via a mode of transport that was a cutting-edge development at the time: the motorcycle.

Rarely do academics and policymakers have the opportunity to sit down together and contemplate the broadest consequences of war. Our comprehension has traditionally been limited to war’s causes, execution, promotion, opposition, and immediate political and economic ends and aftermath. But just as public health researchers are becoming aware of unexpected, subtle and powerful consequences of human economic action, we are beginning to realize that war has many short- and long-term consequences that we poorly understand but cannot afford to neglect. These papers contribute to a growing discourse among academics, scholars and lawmakers that is questioning and rethinking the nature and purpose of war. By studying the effects of war on communities we can more readily understand and anticipate the consequences of present and future conflicts. Such an understanding might well enable us to plan and execute military action with a more clearly defined set of post-war goals in mind. Whereas traditionally a government at war seeks the defeat of the adversary as its primary and often sole aim, through a clearer understanding of war’s effects other aims will also become prominent. War, like surgery, could gradually become more refined, could minimize damage in ways that are currently unimaginable, and could involve an increasingly heavy responsibility to prepare for and facilitate reconstruction. Projects such as this volume are, of course, only the beginning. The more we understand the evolving nature of war, the better prepared we will be to protect communities from its harmful effects.

Through chapters dedicated to specific writers and texts, Writings of Persuasion and Dissonance in the Great War is a collection of essays examining literary responses to the Great War, particularly the confrontation of two distinct languages. One of these reflects nineteenth-century ideals of war as a noble sacrifice; the other portrays the hopeless, brutal reality of the trenches. The ultimate aim of this volume is to convey and reinforce the notion that no explicit literary language can ever be regarded as the definitive language of the Great War, nor can it ever hope to represent this conflict in its entirety. The collection also uncovers how memory constantly develops, triggering distinct and even contradictory responses from those involved in the complex process of remembering. Contributors: Donna Coates, Brian Dillon, Monique Dumontet, Dorothea Flothow, Elizabeth Galway, Laurie Kaplan, Sara Martín Alegre, Silvia Mergenthal, Andrew Monnickendam, David Owen, Andrew Palmer, Bill Phillips, Cristina Pividori, Esther Pujolrás-Noguer, Richard Smith

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