Wow, I'm not really even sure how to begin my review of this novel. It was beautifully written and haunting. I had seen one of the later film adaptations a few years ago when my interest in 20th century history was first developing. I had a keen interest in WWII and thought that a film about WWI would be interesting. Though I enjoyed the film, it didn't impress upon me the same way the novel did, likely because of my age at the time. Even knowing how the plot progressed and how the novel ended, I was surprisingly touched and moved by an ending that, even though I saw it coming, had a tremendous impact. There were many moments throughout the book that were really telling of Paul, and made me feel connected with the character in a way that I think is rare and important. I enjoyed how fast of a pace the final chapter took after a somewhat slower story progression over the course of the novel, showing how war can both be grudgingly slow but over quickly for the men who are forced to fight it. This book is depressing, that is a fact. But, in truth, it is no more depressing than the story of our species. Books like this must be written, and must be read, if we as human beings are ever to become something more than savage beasts. I recommend this book to anyone who is willing to take a hard look at what we can be if we aren't careful.