Susan Anne Raby-dunne

Bonfire: the Chestnut Gentleman Susan Anne Raby-dunne

Publisher Marketing: "Bonfire" is the true story behind the beloved WWI poem, In Flanders Fields written by Lt. Colonel John McCrae, and the reason we wear the red poppy to this day as an international symbol of Remembrance. Although fictionalized and told by McCrae's war horse, Bonfire, the story is closely based on the real history and events of the time. Bonfire was with John McCrae from the beginning of WWI at Camp Valcartier, Quebec in the fall of 1914, to the end of McCrae's life in France, January of 1918. All of McCrae's letters and diaries from the war had mention of Bonfire, his antics and how much that horse meant to his master. Bonfire was McCrae's link to decency, beauty and sanity during those traumatic days. "Bonfire," injects new life into that indelible poem, In Flanders Fields. The story also shines a light on the service of animals during the Great War, particularly horses, mules and dogs. Bonfire contains 24 fascinating archival photographs including one never published of John McCrae, plus a stunning aerial photograph of the "position" McCrae and his artillery brigade were in during the 2nd Battle of Ypres - the actual spot where In Flanders Fields was written. The latter was taken by German baron, von Kanne in April of 1915. Bonfire - The Chestnut Gentleman is for ages 12 and up.