"Historian Deal Ulland provides a look into World War I through the lens of Southern Minnesota and its occupants. Formulated like a good lecture in a story-like style, this book takes its readers through one of the most influential events of the 20th century. It is a nice read whether familiar with the events surrounding the Great War or not. The setup of what sparked the war is especially well done. It is a comfortable read; not overly complicated, but also fresh and interesting. The chapters highlight some perspectives which are not commonly focused on when looking at the larger geographical area of the entire United States or the World. Ulland lines up exactly how the book is going to read concisely in the prologue and follows through. He clearly shows that he is focusing on people and their experiences or attitudes and sticks to representing history in a different manner than the top-down approach."
Risha Lilienthal, Exhibit and Collections Coordinator
Freeborn County Historical Museum
Albert Lea, MN

"Just when you thought you had read everything about World War I, historian and educator, Author Dean Ulland provides thoughtful insight into how the Great War affected the entire United States of America. We often forget that WWI was not only fought overseas but also back home by people who were far away from the battlefields of Europe. Ulland focuses on the sacrifices the people of Southern Minnesota made in order to survive the hardships of war and to support our soldiers. 'We Must All Be Ready to Sacrifice' looks beyond the traditional stories we hear about the history of the war and focuses on how real people here in rural America made history. Ulland gives illustrations of real people doing whatever they could to contribute to the war effort from the heartland."
Randal J. Forster, Executive Director
Mower County Historical Society
Austin, MN