The Old Contemptibles : Book Review

"The Old Contemptibles" by Robin Neillands provides a detailed and captivating account of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) during the early stages of World War I. The author delves into the challenges faced by the BEF, from their poor equipment and training to their daunting task of facing the highly trained German army. Despite these disadvantages, the soldiers, known as the "Old Contemptibles," displayed remarkable bravery and resilience throughout their battles.

Neillands brings the events leading up to the war and the formation of the BEF to life. He sheds light on the struggles and preparations of the British soldiers, building a comprehensive understanding of the context in which they fought. As the book progresses, the author vividly describes major battles, such as Mons, Le Cateau, and the Marne, providing a firsthand experience of the chaos and horror of war.

What sets this book apart is Neillands' focus on personal stories and experiences. By introducing various soldiers, officers, and commanders, he allows readers to connect with them on a human level. These firsthand perspectives offer valuable insights into the harsh realities of war and the emotional toll it took on the troops.

"The Old Contemptibles" also delves into the strategies and tactics employed by both sides, providing an in-depth analysis of the military campaigns. Neillands' thorough research ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the battles fought by the BEF.

Overall, "The Old Contemptibles" is a gripping and informative account of the BEF's crucial contribution to World War I. Neillands' compelling storytelling and attention to detail make this book a must-read for anyone interested in military history or the Great War. It serves as a tribute to the bravery and resilience of the soldiers who fought against all odds.

What are readers saying?

Robin Neillands' book "The Old Contemptibles" has generated a range of responses from readers. This book delves into the experiences of the British Expeditionary Force during the early months of World War I.

Some readers have commended Neillands for his extensive research and compelling storytelling. They consider the book to be a complete portrayal of the battles and tactics employed by the Old Contemptibles, the term used to describe the British soldiers who fought in the war's initial stages. These readers appreciate the author's capacity to vividly depict historical events and describe the book as informative and engaging.

However, there are others who have expressed disappointment with the book. They believe that Neillands' writing style lacks the emotional depth necessary to truly comprehend the horrors of war. Connecting with the characters is challenging for these readers, as they feel that the narrative focuses excessively on military strategy rather than the human experience.

Certain reviewers have also mentioned that the book contains a wealth of information, but they feel overwhelmed by the abundance of detail presented. They find it difficult to follow the chronological order of events and desire a more coherent structure. These readers crave a clearer narrative thread that ties the various military actions together.

Despite differing opinions on the writing style, the majority of readers appreciate Neillands' meticulous research and attention to detail. They consider the book to be a valuable resource for gaining insight into the early stages of World War I and the experiences of the British soldiers involved.

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