Description

WINNER OF THE LONGMAN-HISTORY TODAY BOOK PRIZE 2019
WINNER OF THE TEMPLER MEDAL BOOK PRIZE 2019
WINNER OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON MEDAL FOR MILITARY HISTORY 2019
LONGLISTED FOR THE ORWELL PRIZE FOR POLITICAL WRITING 2019
A SPECTATOR BOOK THE YEAR 2019

‘Brilliant. The best discussion of soldiers in combat, their motivation, behaviours and fears, that I have come across’ Robert Fox, Evening Standard

Our Boys brings to life the human experiences of the paratroopers who fought in the Falklands War, and examines the long aftermath of that conflict. It is a first in many ways – a history of the Parachute Regiment, a group with an elite and aggressive reputation; a study of close-quarters combat on the Falkland Islands; and an exploration of the many legacies of this short and symbolic war.

Told unflinchingly through the experiences of people who lived through it, Our Boys shows how the Falklands conflict began to change Britain’s relationship with its soldiers, and our attitudes to trauma and war itself. It is also the story of one particular soldier: the author’s uncle, who was killed during the conflict, and whose fate has haunted both the author and his fellow paratroopers ever since.

Publisher Review

A work of astonishing power and originality ... a compelling study of the realities of war, centred on the death of the author's uncle in the Falklands. It is at once intensely moving, completely objective and beautifully written. -- Jonathan Sumption * The Spectator * An extraordinary book. -- Richard Vinen, author of National Service Beautifully written, intensely poignant book ... It will leave a real mark on the minds of those who read it. -- Peter Hennessy Powerful and moving, Our Boys is a fascinating insight into the nature of combat and represents an important contribution to our understanding of the Falklands War, The Parachute Regiment and post-war Britain. -- Dan Jarvis MP A classic. Truly superb... something unique and original. It does great justice to the Paras, and is the most honest and honourable homage possible to the author's uncle Dave. -- Major Nigel Price, 7th Gurkha Rifles