War Story - Softcover

Derek Robinson

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0006473326 ISBN 13: 9780006473329

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Ltd, 1993

Synopsis

Fresh from school in June 1916, Lieutenant Oliver Paxton's first solo flight is to lead a formation of biplanes across the Channel to join Hornet Squadron in France.

Five days later, he crash-lands at his destination, having lost his map, his ballast and every single plane in his charge. To his C.O. he's an idiot, to everyone else - especially the tormenting Australian who shares his billet - a pompous bastard.

This is 1916, the year of the Somme, giving Paxton precious little time to grow from innocent to veteran.

About this title

About the Author:

Derek Robinson read history at Cambridge before working in advertising in London and New York. Goshawk Squadron was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 1971.

From Library Journal:

In 1916 Oliver Paxton, very young and only recently awarded his wings, ferries a plane to France and hopes for glory in the Great War. Assigned to the Hornet Squadron, his attitudes make him something of an outcast; and the varied views of war and duty lead to his being grounded for a time. Breakdowns, deaths, and pressure at first cannot dim Paxton's determination to do or die for England. When a comrade dies Paxton finally comes to accept the futility and insanity of war. The author has succeeded in creating a cast of fascinating characters and takes them through riveting incidents of battle and self-examination. There is humor here, too. An excellent novel. Robert H. Donahugh, Youngstown and Mahoning Cty. P.L., Ohio
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
• Publication date: 1993
• ISBN 10: 0006473326
• ISBN 13: 9780006473329
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 320