A review by pokerino
All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque

dark emotional reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

The quintessential modern war novel. Throughout the book we are given an intimate account of the Great War through the perspective of a lowly grunt and his friends. We are exposed first-hand to the psychology and mindset of the soldiers serving and how those views evolve with the war. Though a fiction novel, this book does a wonderful job portraying the war in its full, brutal reality; no glorifying or sugar-coating. 

This a must-read for all people, and especially those with an interest in history. The lessons to be learned here are vital to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.

The characters in the book are all living and breathing, with their own personalities, wants, and whims. It's easy for me to find myself in the main protagonist - Paul - especially the descriptions of his struggles to readapt himself with civilian life. Had I been in his situation, I imagine I would have reacted much the same as him.

.25 stars docked because I feel like the last couple chapters were a tad rushed. 20-30 addition pages would have helped maybe.
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