For Roman Catholics and others interested in what Europeans called "Modernism" in the early 20th century, this books provides the best explanation of the hows and whys of the social interaction that led to the condemnation of "Modernist" Roman Catholic scholars. Accusations of Modernism still ring in the halls of traditionalist Roman Catholic scholars. To understand their accusations and their laments, Schultenover's book is indispensible. His approach is historical, with primary and some previously unpublished sources, and anthropological, viewing events with the lenses of Mediterranean cultural anthropology. The result is an excellent overview.

This is an excellent book about another little-known aspect of World War II and the 'Greatest Generation'. Carol Hossner Bessey was a small-town girl from rural Idaho who enlisted in the WAAC, which later became the WAC, to serve her country in World War II. This is her story- a story of the patriotism of a young woman who strived to do her part in a big war despite the occasional lack of respect from her male peers in the military. It is a story of friendships, of the many different women Carol meets during the war years. It is also a love story, telling the tale of the meeting and whirlwind romance of two young people in time of war who meet and fall in love despite the fact that the future is uncertain. The book follows Carol through her wartime experiences Stateside, mostly in Kansas, and also follows her future husband Grant's experiences Stateside and later as a scout in the Battle of the Bulge, where he is injured, and in the Army of Occupation.
Bessey writes in the spare prose of the newspaperwomen she has been for decades. She captures the feelings of young women off serving their country very well. As a male reader, I found it particularly interesting to read of the war from a female perspective. The book would appeal to anyone interested in women's roles in fighting World War II and also to anyone interested in women dealing with adversity. Bessey's experiences were not unique, nor were they action-packed. They are told engagingly and honestly, with no attempt to build them up, and what results is a satisfying, edifying read that gives the reader a new appreciation for the sacrifices of the thousands of women of 'The Greatest Generation' who served our nation in time of need.
The book is illustrated with photos that augment and heighten interest in the text.
I recommend 'Battle of the Wac'. It is not an action and adventure military history. It is a perceptive and sensitive account of women at war, one woman in particular, and a valuable addition to existing military literature.

As the daughter of a WAC officer, I was deeply moved by Bessey's book. She is a credit to all WACs--a true lady in uniform. Not only does she reveal a gifted writing style, but she treats her subject with depth and beauty. Anyone who loves WWII history, women's history, or just great love stories, should buy this book. I highly recommend it!