Very interesting book on the First World War. Not your garden variety historiography. The author, Louisa Thomas, is writing about her great-grandfather and his three brother during the Great War. Two brothers join the military (Arthur and Ralph); the other two Norman and Evan are conscience objectors. The book is based on the letters and documents left by the brother as well as public records of their activities. This is no ordinary family. They are socially and politically connected. They have access to President Wilson and other national leaders. As the story unfolds, this does not appear to provide them with a great deal of assistance during their various challenges and activities.

This book provides a great deal of insight into the social issues and efforts by activists to change society. The descriptions of the treatment which the COs received publically, by the military establishment, and in confinement I found very enlightening and disturbing. Many of these facts probably never came to light during the period of WWI.

Also covered is the feeling in the United States regarding WWI and consideration into America's possible involvement. The war according to this work was not as popular as may be supposed. President Wilson is shown in the light of a Liberal, but also a politician seeking to achieve his agenda and also gain reelection;"looking the other way" when necessary.

Good book, well written; presents a different weave on the conditions in the US socially, politically and economically prior to and after the US entry into the war. Starts a bit slow outling some family hlistory and background for the Thomas family. Stay with it and you will be rewarded with an interesting read. ( )