The Naked Island

The author went through some really horrific situations but at the same time can describe the strength of the human spirit. The author also has a great sense of humor. I think books like this are rare these days in our politically correct world. Well worth the read.

The Naked IslandThe autobiography of a young australian soldier who spent long years in captivity as prisoner of war of the Japanese.The first part is the description of the military life in Malaya before the attack of the Japanese with many ironical notes on that tedious life from the point of view of a soldier.The second part is the description of the useless fight of the Australian and British troops against the overwhelming enemy and then the attempt to escape the capture.Then the third, and most interesting part, is the description of the life during three long years of captivity in the different prisons where the writer was imprisoned and in the jungle camps where all prisoners were forced to work without food, facing malaria, beri beri and death for starvation.A book I would really recommend.Are you looking for another absolutely interesting book about a similar experience?Read the famous "Behind bamboo" by Rohan Rivett

One of my first introductions to Australian and Far East reading of WW11, thoroughly enjoyable, could not put it down until it was finished. Would recommend this book to all generations. Has given me the taste to find out more about the Far East and familiarise myself with further Australian literature. Thought only John Pilger could write riveting literature, I was wrong!

This is an unforgettable book: informative, educational, poignant and often delightfully humorous. It is a tribute to the British and Australian Forces used as slave labour in the construction of the Burma/Siamese Railway and their ability to live with dignity, compassion and decency under the most deplorable conditions imaginable. This book leaves an indelible impression on the reader and should be required reading for each successive generation.

One of the best books I have read on the war in the pacific. Quite harrowing and it unbelievable what these men went through at the hands of the Japanese. Essential reading for anyone who wishes to understand the japanese pysche and mans courage