In the era when television options were limited and the term ‘stream’ simply referred to a small river, viewing choice during bank holidays was usually a notable war movie, such as Where Eagles Dare or The Heroes Of Telemark. Surprisingly, a movie chronicling Operation Biting, a brave mission in 1942 to snatch German radar technology – marking the first victorious British paratrooper assault, still awaits to be filmed. Max Hastings’s highly engaging book brings this to light, making one wonder why such a classic couch day adventure hasn’t found its way to the screen yet.
Before diving into action, the book provides abundant background details. A genius physicist, sharp shooter, and pioneer in infrared detection, Dr. RV (Reg) Jones proves significant in this narrative. As World War II erupted, he found himself appointed in the air ministry and secret service, monitoring the enemy’s military usage of science and technology.
Thanks to being traditionally educated, Jones picked up on a reference to Freya in decrypted signals by Bletchley Park codebreakers. Freya, in mythology, had stolen a magic necklace from Heimdall – a godly servant who had extraordinary vision. Aerial imagery identified Bruneval, a little north of Le Harve on the French coastline, as the probable location for Hitler’s electronic surveillance, leading to an attack suggestion sent to Combined Operations HQ, led by Commodore Lord Louis Mountbatten.
Hastings debates the importance of this royal relative, who later fell victim to Provisional IRA in 1979, yet acknowledged that Churchill appreciated him. For Lord Mountbatten, Combined Operations were seen as a cinema backdrop wherein “valiant deeds would be performed for the sake of the British war effort”.
Other recent notable literature and academia developments include Joyce scholars confronting a divide due to allegations of sexual harassment, a review lauding ‘The Material’ by Camille Bordas with its sharp and humorous portrayal of campus comedians, Chidi Ebere’s win for the best debut over 50 prize, and Neil Stewart’s ‘Test Kitchen’ vividly capturing one chaotic but thrilling night of service.
Also featuring is Frederick Browning, recognised as the “founder of the British airborne units” in Richard Mead’s biography, and being the spouse of the unusually energetic Daphne du Maurier. Additionally, the recklessly outspoken French spy and habitual risk-taker, Rémy, forms part of this character ensemble which arguably overshadows The Great Escape in its immense roster. The assault seemed destined for failure, yet even the mishandled parachute drops ended up disorienting the Germans. The triumphant execution of the mission was hailed as a significant and much-needed boost to public morale, receiving fitting commendation in the media.
This chronicle, abundant in intricate details, intrigues like a suspense novel, and few can rival Hastings in mastering this genre flair.