The Little Lead Soldier

Wonderful book, well written, clearly researched in all details... the Little Lead Soldier's descriptions of war were meant to be read only by the six year old son of Colonel Wise. Consequently the true horrors of the day were not fully described in his original letters. The author, Hugh D. Wise,III, has filled in the vivid details of these World War I battles, making it even more admirable how his grandfather took the time and energy to keep the promise to his young son and write regularly during such difficult and frightening days. This book is a gem!

An intriguing treatment of World War 1. History seen through the letters of a U.S. Army Officer (aka The Little Tin Soldier) to his son. The American involvement in the war is traced from troopships leaving for France to the armistice. Touching account of the hardships war imposes on soldiers and their families.

The letters from father to son (from the device of the Lead Soldier) that make up the majority of this book vividly bring the war to life. It's actually rather amazing how detailed Col. Wise gets considering his son was very young. These are really good and maybe the most "entertaining" account of a higher ranking officer that I have read from WWI.On the other hand the author's notes where he tries to put things into context are often annoying, though that is fine we all read history differently. I won't attempt to point out all the times he actually made mistakes though. Most are nit picking (like it is the American Expeditionary FORCES, not Force) but they are in basically every chapter to one degree or another. I know these things happen, I've read historians I really respect make one or two of these in books and for folks not into WWI, they may not catch them----however the sheer volume of them here really began to bother me.Still, a good read that I recommend.

A fascinating account through the eyes of one who was there 100 years ago but with the added perspective of hindsight from today added by the author.