Part of Life Itself: The War Diary of Lieutenant Leslie Howard Miller, CEF

During the First World War, Leslie Howard Miller kept a detailed diary that vividly depicted his military service. The diary, which includes over 500 notes and illustrations, provides a unique insight into the experiences of a Canadian soldier during the war. Unpublished for over a century, it is now considered one of Canada's most important wartime diaries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2023
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

This extensively annotated wartime diary provides a detailed account of the military service of Leslie Howard Miller (1889–1979), a Canadian soldier who served in the First World War. Miller joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) in 1914 and began keeping this remarkable diary during his off-duty hours. The diary spans from his training in Canada to his deployment overseas, service on the Western Front, and periods of leave in the United Kingdom. Graham Broad, working from a transcription of the diary produced by Millers family, has included a comprehensive introduction and afterword, along with over 500 notes that provide context and explanation for Millers numerous references to people, places, and events he encountered.

Unpublished for over a century, the diary is written in bracing and engaging prose and is illustrated with Millers own drawings and unseen photographs. Part of Life Itself offers a glimpse into a bygone world and stands as one of the most important wartime diaries from Canada.

Miller's service in the CEF was notable, as he participated in several major battles, including the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the Battle of Passchendaele, and the Battle of Amiens. His diary provides a firsthand account of the horrors and challenges of war, as well as the camaraderie and resilience of the soldiers he served with.

One of the most striking aspects of the diary is Millers ability to capture the essence of the war in his writing. He describes the sights and sounds of battle, the smell of smoke and blood, and the fear and uncertainty that soldiers felt during their time in the trenches. He also shares his thoughts and emotions, including his pride in his country and his admiration for his fellow soldiers.

Despite the hardships and sacrifices of war, Millers diary also reflects the resilience and determination of the Canadian people. He describes the support and admiration that the soldiers received from the Canadian public, as well as the sacrifices that civilians made in support of the war effort.

Overall, this extensively annotated wartime diary is a valuable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the experiences of soldiers during World War I. It provides a unique perspective on the war and sheds light on the contributions and sacrifices of Canadian soldiers and civilians.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487522940