Shattered Anzacs: Living with the Scars of War

by Marina Larsson

Presenting the untold story of thousands of Australian families who welcomed back disabled soldiers after World War I, this poignant account reveals the true impact of physical injury and shell shock on these men and their families well into the 1930s. Drawing the reader into the emotional interior of family life, the discussion brings to light the daily struggles of Australia's 90,000 "changed men" and reveals the significant burdens carried by their family members.

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2009

Reviews

[Saturday's Child · Rating 4 out of 5]

World War 1 tragically left 60,000 Australian men dead; they made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. It also left 90,000 disabled. This was as equally tragic as many of them died from their war wounds and experiences soon after returning home, and for others their life was forever changed due to their disability. This book provides and insight into how these men and their families adapted to their changed lives in a country that was left scarred and also changed by World War 1.

[Richard S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although somewhat repetitive and a bit dry at times, I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in the post war experience of WW1 Diggers. In part the book takes a critical look at the Government response to support (or lack of) for returned soldier with war related health issues. The book also re-examines the meaning of "war dead" in light of the offically recognised 13,000+ post 1918 war related deaths. Consequently the book raises questions about how post war dead are commemorated as part of our nation's narrative of war and remembrance.

[David Vernon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing and dull. I fail to understand why this won a history award. It reads like a PhD thesis but it is probably more repetitive. This topic deserves a much clearer and decisive treatment. Far more case studies and anecdotes would have given the reader a better understanding of the day-to-day trials and tribulations of wounded soldiers. Instead, Larsson relies on a few interviews and constant repetition of government material.

[Brenda Kittelty · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book doesn't have the social history emotional pull of works by Les Carlyon, for example, it is a fascinating insight into the lives of Australian WWI returned servicemen and their families. I was moved by the descriptions of the troubles and hardships so many endured for so many years after the
Armistice.