Escape, Evasion and Revenge
by Marc H. Stevens
"The True Story of a German-Jewish RAF Pilot who Bombed Berlin and Became a PoW"
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Escape, Evasion and Revenge by Marc H. Stevens
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Pilots
Military Unit:
Royal Air Force
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
Europe
Published Date:
2009
ISBN13:
9781848841062
Description
Brief Summary
"Escape, Evasion and Revenge" by Marc H. Stevens tells the gripping story of Peter Stevens, a German-Jewish refugee who fled Nazi Germany as a teenager and later became an RAF pilot during World War II. Stevens completed numerous bombing missions over Germany but was eventually shot down and captured. His acts of defiance while imprisoned showcase both his resilience and determination; despite several attempts, he never successfully escaped back to England. Post-war, Peter Stevens' heroics were duly acknowledged with a Military Cross. The book delves into his extraordinary life journey, including his work as a British spy in the nascent stages of the Cold War before he settled into a new life in Canada.
Main Themes and Topics
One of the central themes of the book is the concept of identity and duality. Peter Stevens navigated the complexities of serving in the RAF while concealing his German-Jewish heritage, a secret that added significant risk to his missions and escape attempts. Another prevailing topic is resilience and determination as Stevens repeatedly attempted to escape captivity, embodying the relentless pursuit of freedom against overwhelming odds. The narrative also explores themes of heroism and sacrifice in the backdrop of wartime ethics and the perils of espionage.
Writing Style and Tone
Marc H. Stevens adopts a factual and meticulous writing style, reflecting his extensive research into his father's history. The tone is earnest and respectful, striking a balance between the personal and historical aspects of the narrative. With detailed descriptions of wartime escapades and thoughtfully incorporated archival materials, the book offers readers a profound insight into Peter Stevens' conflict-filled yet inspiring life.
Awards and Recognition
While the book itself may not have garnered significant awards, the story within was recognized with the awarding of the Military Cross to Peter Stevens after the war. This acknowledgment highlights the remarkable and selfless contributions he made during his service.
