Laurence Van Alstyne's Diary of a Private is a candid and very personal account of life in the army during the First World War. The author talks about his impressions, feelings, experiences and the reality of frontline life, reflecting the bright light and shadows of military reality. Through heartfelt speech and witty observations, Van Alstyne reveals to the reader the world that defines war, making this book very valuable for understanding the war experience and human nature.