First in the Kiwis at War series which is set to comprise five books by various authors on each year of the First World War. When war is declared in August 1914, 17-year-old Billy Bowman is caught up in the excitement and signs up with his best mate Jack along with their horses. From shepherding on a Manawatu farm they are sent to Awapuni Racecourse near Palmerston North and assigned to the 6th Manawatu Squadron of the Wellington Mounted Rifles Regiment.

During the long sea voyage to war the heat takes its toll on the horses and soldiers alike with the horses needing extra care just to stay alive. Once they are through the Suez Canal they finally reach Egypt and experience culture shock as they spend weeks training in the desert.

Leaving their horses behind in Egypt, the squadron is sent to Gallipoli after the first landings. There they take park in the horrific battle of Chunuk Bair in August 1915. The horror of trench warfare surrounded by the dead from both sides is depicted in grim reality. War is hell – far removed from the big adventure Jack and his mates thought it would be. In a minority of those who survived, Billy must learn a new way of getting around as he comes to terms with his injury.

Accurately reflecting the story inside, the embossed cover is just fantastic. The map at the front is detailed and an important reference point as the reader moves through the story. Also very useful are the timeline, glossary and bibliography are included at the end of the book. Another fantastic offering from well respected Tauranga children’s author Susan Brocker, one which reflects a large amount of research into the topic. Highly recommended. ( )