Laskier, Frank Log Book

Published early in World War 2, this short novel is an autiobiographical treatment of Laskier’s life as a merchant mariner. Much attention is paid to World War 2, with riveting descriptions of convoy service. Though simply written, it is a powerful work, particularly in its last section when Laskier’s hero is confronted by a series of ghosts, sailors all, who exhort him to tell their stories of life at sea in wartime. There is much bitterness here, against not only the Nazis and Axis nations but also against British shipowners and indeed the British public and their attitudes toward merchant mariners. A quick and “must” read for anyone interested in the merchant marine during the Second World War. Highly recommended.