A Schoolmaster's War
by Jonathan Rée
"Harry Ree - A British Agent in the French Resistance"
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A Schoolmaster's War by Jonathan Rée
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Spying
Military Unit:
British Army
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
251
Published Date:
2020
ISBN13:
9780300252590
Description
Main Themes and Topics
The book A Schoolmaster's War delves into the transformative journey of Harry Rée from a schoolteacher with pacifist beliefs to a decisive and active member of the Special Operations Executive during World War II. It explores themes of courage, transformation, and the moral complexities faced during times of war. Harry Rée’s firsthand accounts, as recounted and framed by his son, Jonathan Rée, offer poignant insights into the moral dilemmas and emotional challenges encountered in wartime. The narrative is not merely one of heroics but is imbued with reflections on the internal conflicts that accompany acts of resistance and sabotage.
Writing Style and Tone
Jonathan Rée crafts the book with a thoughtful and reflective tone, balancing narrative momentum with philosophical contemplation. The writing is detailed and precise, allowing Harry Rée’s original words to shine through while providing necessary context and commentary. The style is engaging yet reflective, steering away from glorification to offer a more nuanced portrayal of war's realities.
Brief Summary
A Schoolmaster's War narrates the life and wartime experiences of Harry Rée, a former schoolteacher turned Special Operations Executive operative. After abandoning his pacifism with the fall of France, Rée was parachuted into central France in 1943. There, he became adept at organizing sabotage operations and forming alliances with local resistance groups. His story is marked by intense personal transformations and poignant struggles which are captured authentically through his writings, as edited and presented by his son.
