In 1942 at the tender age of 22 Eric Newby was captured by the Germans during a failed raid on a Sicilian air base, and spent time in a POW camp. This memoir tells the story of his captivity, his escape and the subsequent period that he spent hiding in the inhospitable terrain around the village of Fontellanato. For several months he was sheltered and fed by local people, despite their fear of the German army and the scarcity of their own resources.
It is a story of courage, resilience and human kindness. Newby's style is quite matter of fact, and sprinkled with a lot of humour, but there is no mistaking the danger he was in, and the physical hardships that he had to endure. He describes the everyday life of the villagers, the mountain tracks and woods of the area, the huts, caves and hay lofts where he had to hide, the setting and the period really come to life. He is grateful for all the help he received and respectful even towards those who refused to help, appreciating the difficulties they faced. Amid all the difficulties he met the woman who became his life-long love.
It's a very absorbing read.
That sounds like a good one, Polly!
ReplyDeleteIt is Jeanie :-)
DeleteThat's not a good read; it's a GREAT one. I read it years ago and must read it again some day.
ReplyDeleteYou can enjoy it a second time around John.
DeleteI read a similara book based in Guernsey and loved it, I have made a note in my book to read this one. thanks for the post,
ReplyDeleteBriony
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You're welcome Briony :-)
DeleteSounds like an interesting wartime read. I must try and track it down.
ReplyDeleteYour library will probably have it, or you can find it online.
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