David A Dye

The Anzac Legend David A Dye

In Australia and New Zealand the battles at Gallipoli in the First World War are regarded to have defined the Nations. Many books have been written on the subject, but none have been presented in the manner of The Anzac Legend. This is a unique graphic novel; and also a unique history book. The obvious difference between it and other histories is the graphic base to the story-telling. This makes it so much easier for the casual reader to understand where the action is taking place and how it relates to the rest of the battle. Many people have heard of Shrapnel Gully, the Lone Pine, Quinn's Post and Anzac Cove. But how did one relate to the other? What happened at these places to make them renowned? These locations and the fighting which occurred in their vicinity are clearly explained so that the reader gets a real appreciation of the entirety of the battle.

The book tells the story of the events leading up to the landing; the landing itself and the Ottoman reaction. It then explains the battles that took place over the next week and a half as the Ottoman Armyattempted to quickly drive the invaders back into the sea.

This book should not be approached as if it is a light read. There is so much detail and depth which makes it a perfect study tool, and presents many facts that hitherto have never been described outside the notebooks and diaries of Mr Charles Bean, Australia's primary military historian of World War 1. In the same way it is not merely a "dry" old history book full of dates and famous names. Many personal stories are told of ordinary soldiers, so the reader can follow their actions during the advances and retreats over the few days described.