This is a fascinating look at the two neighbouring hamlets of Barking and Dagenham in Essex, bt now considered to be part of outer London. My Mum was born and raised in Dagenham and would have loved to read this book, which is why I ased for a review copy. Like the book about Liverpool's women, this book celebrates the great and the good of Barking and Dagenham and looks at the impact on the two inseparable locations of the first world war. Beautifully written and illustrated, this is a great slice of social history.
Books Monthly

[b]Rating[/b]: 5 out of 5 stars "Singing, with intervals of silence or of whistling or humming provided a distraction from the long, slow count of the heavy laden miles..." "The Daily Telegraph Dictionary of Tommies' Songs and Slang, 1914-1918" is comprised of songs that "were universally sung in British Expeditionary Forces at one time or another during 1914-1918." Editors Brophy and Partridge have presented an impressive collection of these songs. Included are songs of longing such as "Keep The Home Fires Burning", sarcastic ditties "On,Oh,Oh It's a Lovely War! and an end of conflict song "The Bells are Ringing For Me and My Girl". In this reader's opinion, World War I literature has been greatly enhanced by the feelings emoted by the common soldier, be they words of determination, jest, sarcasm, weariness or exasperation. An excellent literary read.
NetGalley, Fran Eichenauer

Chapman’s writing exudes authenticity and integrity. Read the full review [link=https://www.argunners.com/review-passionate-prodigality-fragments-autobiography-guy-chapman/]here[/link]
Argunners

Featured in
Great War July 2019

Featured in
Great War July 2019