New Zealander Ken Catran gives an interesting perspective on war in his quartet of books about the Moran family*. Like the Plumb trilogy by Maurice Gee, each book focuses on a different generation of the same family: Jacko’s a hero during World War I, but this doesn’t translate to success back home; Robert’s determined not to be like his father and is plagued by tragedy in World War II (although good things possibly happen, without giving away too much); Jimmy goes to the Vietnam War; Teresa’s a female soldier in a male-dominated environment, determined to live up to her family name.

The books also examine family relationships – especially fathers with their children. Catran’s a prolific author, so if you enjoy these then the rest of his catalogue could keep you busy for a while.

*Teresa Moran, soldier; Jimmy Moran, regular; Robert Moran, private; Jacko Moran, sniper.