Synopses & Reviews
The turbulent 1930s, and all across Europe cry the discordant voices of hunger and death, most notably in Spain, where a civil war threatens to destroy the country. Aspiring writer, Marcus Hendrycks, has toyed with life for twenty-one years. His illusions, developed within a safe, cloistered existence in Cambridge, are shattered forever when he joins the fight against the fascists and is exposed to a harsh reality. As the war takes hold, he discovers that life itself is the real schoolroom.
About the Author
Nicholas Monsarrat was born in Liverpool and educated at Cambridge University, where he studied law. His career as a solicitor encountered a swift end when he decided to leave Liverpool for London, with a half-finished manuscript under his arm and £40 in his pocket. His first book to attract attention was the largely autobiographical 'This is the Schoolroom'. During World War Two he joined the Royal Navy and served in the corvettes. His war experience provided the framework for the novel 'HMS Marlborough will enter Harbour', one of his best known books. 'The Cruel Sea' was made into a classic film starring Jack Hawkins. Established as a top name writer Monsarrat's writing career concluded with 'The Master Mariner'. Well known for his concise story telling and tense narrative, he became one of the most successful novelists of the twentieth century, whose rich and varied collection bears the hallmarks of a truly gifted writer.