Somewhere in France

Brief Summary

Somewhere in France by Thomas J. Schaeper chronicles the World War I experiences of Private Frederick A. Kittleman, an American soldier from Olean, New York. Drafted in 1918, Kittleman served in an artillery regiment and fought in significant battles, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. The book features transcriptions of Kittleman's letters to his family, which reflect his sense of pride and excitement at joining the army. In stark contrast, his journal entries reveal the harsh realities of warfare that he chose to hide from his loved ones. Schaeper's detailed annotations and the inclusion of illustrations provide a vivid portrayal of Kittleman's journey, offering insight into the personal and psychological impacts of the war.

Main Themes and Topics

The primary themes in Somewhere in France include the duality of perception versus reality in wartime, the emotional and psychological toll of war, and the camaraderie among soldiers. Kittleman's letters portray a young soldier eager to experience the adventure of military service, but his journal entries reveal a darker side, characterized by the brutal realities of battle. The book also explores themes of patriotism and duty, as well as the impact of war on individual soldiers' mental health.

Writing Style and Tone

Thomas J. Schaeper adopts a documentary style in Somewhere in France, merging historical analysis with primary sources. The tone is respectful and informative, carefully balancing Kittleman's personal reflections with historical context. Schaeper's annotations and the inclusion of primary materials provide readers with an immersive and authentic glimpse into the experiences of an American soldier during World War I. The straightforward and precise writing style aids in clearly conveying the gravity of the events while maintaining a personal touch through Kittleman's words.