Revealing, through the medium of letters home, this book shows much about the life, personal thoughts, and worries of a private soldier during the First World War. The series of letters begin after he has enlisted, showing how he adapts to military life away from his wife and young daughter. Moving on to the voyage to France, heavy work unloading ships in the docks, before moving up to the front line. Concern for his young family permeates every letter, whilst putting on a brave face, and making light of his own situation. The final letter shows a prophetic glimpse of the future.