The British and Canadian armies recruited more than 50,000 Bantam soldiers to bolster their ranks during the Great War. The story of these diminutive men and their experiences in the trenches feature prominently among the folk-lore of World War One. Drawing on accounts from 300 survivors of the bantam battalions, this in-depth history covers every aspect of the bantam phenomenon. This is very much a stand alone source, ideal for the Great War enthusiast, although perhaps a little heavy for the casual reader.

Maj Mike Peters, AAC, SOLDIER MAGAZINE

The Bantams gives one of the best accounts this reviewer has encountered of the rigors of trench warfare. This book is a must for all collections of World War One history and Canada's part in it.

Neil Payne, Canadian Materials

The citizens of LeHavre weren't prepared for the bizarre sight that greeted them after a British troopship arrived in the harbour in January, 1916, with a fresh contingent of reinforcements for the Western Front. The troops marched down the gangplanks as though they were mocking the traditional image of the stalwart soldier. They each were about five feet tall, seeming more like mascots than fighting-men.
And so the first battalion of the Bantams, as they were officially called, prepared for battle. They soon proved they were equal in stamina and valor as standard-sized soldiers. By 1918, more than 50,000 Bantams, including 2,000 from Canada, served in the trenches, and their casualties were enormous. Yet the story of the Bantams' outstanding contribution to the war has been forgotten, overlooked, or even deliberately concealed by army historians, who were perhaps embarrassed by the episode.
But thanks to a Toronto military historian, their story is now told for the first time, and it's enough to make short men stand tall. Sidney Allinson deserves credit for ferreting out the fascinating tale and for preserving it in the face of official indifference and even hostility. His experience documents again the widespread illogical prejudice against people who happen to be short.

William French, The Globe & Mail

Allinson's book is a tribute and a triumph: excellent reading, it touches the heart, yet lays bare the evil of war.

Kingston Whig-Standard

This is a book to be read by all students of military history, together with those who have a particular interest in the British soldier's life in World War I. It is also recommended reading for anyone who questions the continuation of Remembrance Day.

Southport Visiter

Allinson bases the book on interviews, letters, and diaries, and wrote it to bring 21 battalions out of obscurity. Nobody who reads this account is likely to forget them.

Ottawa Citizen