DOMINION LIBRARY.

White Ribbon, Volume 28, Issue 327, 18 September 1922, Page 14

DOMINION LIBRARY.

“BACK TO LIFE.” By I’hilip Gibbs There are probably few men better able to write about the war, and to understand something of its inner meaning, than Philip Gibbs, who followed the fortunes of the armies from lirst to last during the four yearn of conflict. This book, dealing as it does with the last two or three weeks before the signing of the Armistice, and the first year after the cessation of active hostilities, and giving some insight into the varying moods and passions which swayed the popular mind on both sides, cannot fail to be of intense interest to all readers. It is divided into three parts, the first, "The End of the Adventure,” treating of the time Just before tin* Armistice the second, ‘Through Hostile Gatos,” describing some experiences in Germany with the Army of Oe-cupation; and the third, "Builders of reace," giving some little idea of the negotiations which resulted in the Treaty of Versailles, ami of the effect of this upon the contending nations. The book is no ordinary novel, lull of thrilling interest as it is with its d< - tails of varied incidents during that difficult time, but to thoughtful leaders th«* main interest will t>e in it.'- re velation >f tic* terrible effects of wai upon all concerned in it. i>oth physic-ady and from a higher stundpoint. The mental and physical ruin of so many lives, the brutality practiced on both side*, the general lowering of the moral tone, the perverted sense of justice, and, above alt, the legacy of hatred between nation and nation -all this is vividly pourtrayed, together with the tragedies of disappointed hopes and broken promises, and the utter failure of war to bring real advantage or satisfaction either to victor or vanquished. Yet through it all shines out the unconquerable nobility of human nature, :tnd the love which can transcend national prejudice and the horrors of war. and spend itself in service to those who have been its enemies. For in a world ruled by Supreme Love, where goes! is ever triumph;.nt ever evil, there can be not lung which has not within it some* element of good; and the writer show’s how' e ven war conditions may sometimes draw out tin* hidden virtues in the heart of man. and furnish instances of complete

sell-sacrifice and the most perfect selfforgetfulness. This book cannot fail to prove a fruitful study for any who muy still believe war to be the be*st meeuiis of settling international difficulties, and also a stimulus to the* endeavours of those who are striving to rind a solution of the problems which beset the establishment of a world peace. This U>ok is m the l>oininion Library, and may be procured from Mrs Field, 1 lie Hocks. Port Ne lson. Postage 6d.