Waiting for War: Britain 1939-1940

The Phoney War, a time of official incompetence, censorship, and evacuation, was a period of intense political and military activity from September 1939 to May 1940. Barry Turner weaves these events into a compelling home front narrative that evokes the fears and dangers but also the humor and absurdities of everyday life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2019
Publisher: Icon Books Ltd

Amidst the outbreak of war in 1939, ordinary people found themselves abruptly compelled to confront the harsh realities of a nation facing imminent threat. However, this period soon earned the dubious distinction of being known as the "Phoney War," characterized by a pervasive sense of official incompetence that reigned supreme. Theatres and cinemas shuttered, football matches were called off, and the country experienced a collective sense of disorientation and frustration. It took the government some time to realize the gravity of the situation, as morale plummeted due to the enforced isolation and separation from loved ones. In response, thousands of women and children were evacuated to the countryside, only to witness a wave of returning refugees, driven by their desperate desire to be reunited with their families. Censorship of news became increasingly heavy-handed, fostering widespread resentment and skepticism among the populace.

Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, the period from September 1939 to May 1940 was marked by a flurry of intense political and military activity. The blitzkrieg unfolded against Poland, the U-boat menace emerged, the disastrous Norwegian campaign unfolded, and political maneuvers resulted in the ascension of Winston Churchill to power. Barry Turner skillfully weaves these historical events into a compelling narrative that captures the full spectrum of emotions experienced during those dark days. He evokes the fears and dangers faced by ordinary people, as well as the humor and absurdities that emerged in their daily lives. Through his vivid storytelling, Turner provides a unique perspective on the home front during World War II, offering a valuable insight into the human experience during times of conflict.

Weight: 650g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785785481