Service and Sacrifice

Brief Summary

Service and Sacrifice by Ken Hynes portrays the lives of ten remarkable individuals from Nova Scotia who served in the First World War. The book explores the diverse backgrounds of these individuals, including Indigenous and Black soldiers and nursing sisters, highlighting their extraordinary acts of bravery and commitment. It aims to honor the sacrifices they made and to shine a light on their contributions to Canada's military history.

Main Themes and Topics

The central theme of Service and Sacrifice is the exploration of valor and dedication exhibited by Nova Scotian soldiers during the Great War. The book emphasizes themes of duty, courage, and the diverse cultural backgrounds of the individuals involved. By telling the stories of these ten people, Hynes underscores the broader contributions of over thirty thousand Nova Scotians who participated in the war, thereby focusing on the personal dimension of military service and the enduring impact of such contributions on collective history.

Writing Style and Tone

Ken Hynes adopts a detailed and empathetic narrative style, using historical accounts and personal anecdotes to weave together the stories of the featured individuals. The tone is respectful and reflective, aiming to engage readers with both the heroic actions and the personal sacrifices made by the subjects. The inclusion of over 90 images enriches the narrative, providing a visual representation that complements the text, making the historical accounts more relatable and poignant.

Awards and Recognition

As of the latest available information, Service and Sacrifice has been recognized for its contribution to documenting Canadian military history, particularly in shedding light on the stories of less represented groups in historical narratives. The book's focus on diversity and detailed storytelling has earned it appreciation within historical and educational circles for its depth and breadth of research.