51 pages 1 hour read

Timothy Findley

The Wars

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1977

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Wars by Timothy Findley is a 1977 novel about Robert Ross, a young Canadian officer who enlists in the military and fights in the First World War. Through varied narrative perspectives, it details his experiences from training in Canada to the brutal realities of the front lines in Europe, as well as his personal relationships and eventual tragic fate. The novel includes depictions of war-related violence, sexual assault, and suicide.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Timothy Findley’s The Wars is widely acclaimed for its powerful depiction of World War I and its profound psychological insight. While praised for compelling character development and evocative prose, some critiques note a fragmented narrative structure. Overall, the novel’s emotional depth and historical realism resonate strongly with readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wars?

Readers who appreciate The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien or All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque will likely enjoy The Wars by Timothy Findley. The novel appeals to those interested in profound, poignant explorations of war's human impact, told through a literary and reflective narrative.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Relationships: Family

Society: War

Topics

Military / War

Education

History: World

Genre

Education

Historical Fiction

Canadian Literature

Period

WWI / World War I