The Devil's Own War (paperback) ed. John Crawford

Reviews and Media:

REVIEWS

‘Hart’s diary reveals the eye of a citizen-soldier in exotic and dangerous surroundings. His descriptions are lively, occasionally humourous and range from grand strategy to domestic trivia ...
John Crawford supports the diary entries with numerous notes and a brief resume of Hart’s life before and after the war. There is a small selection of well reproduced photos and a few maps.
Hart wrote well and it is a great pity he never produced a book of his own experiences. This handsome book is produced in association with the New Zealand Defence Force of which John Crawford is official historian.’ Wairarapa Times Age

‘I recommend this book to all who have an interest in the war. It is not the next best thing to being there – it is in fact much better as it is much safer and more comfortable.’ Hawke’s Bay Weekend

‘Many soldiers kept diaries, but this one is unique because of the writer’s skill. It contains gripping descriptions of combat and life in and behind the frontline and on leave in France and England … As a senior officer, he had access to sources denied to his juniors. This makes his diary totally captivating.’ Northern Advocate

‘Hart’s diary of his service in the Great War is one of the best to have survived. In it, he not only recorded his activities but also made often perceptive comments on the events he was taking part in. He took to the war the small town qualities that contributed so much to his success. His common sense approach, his lack of pretension, his ability to mix easily with his subordinates, his aptitude for command and administration — all come through in his often well written entries. … It will appeal to anyone interested in the experience of New Zealanders in the maelstrom of the Western Front as perceived by an eminent New Zealand officer.’ New Zealand International Review

‘A born diarist, it is his factual, understated style that makes his eyewitness account of the war all the more powerful. … Do take the opportunity to buy and read the paperback edition of one of our most important wartime diaries.’ Southland Times

‘War diaries make grand reading.’ Otago Daily Times