Not all books are written to be world-moving pieces of literature. Some of them are just for fun. Many humans could benefit from just having more fun. Not all human endeavour needs to have some grand ideal it aims toward or some fantastic consequence that it aims to achieve. In fact, I’ve found that some of the best human activities come from simply being silly and taking everything a little less seriously. The world may be constantly full of horrendous happenings but that makes it all the more vital for people to take some time to have fun when they can.
This book is set within the context of World War II in England. An epoch that left an indelible mark on the collective conscious and individual perspectives for generations to come. Particularly in that part of the world. I knew a grandfather who would be thrifty for his entire life because as a child he grew up in the late 1930’s. Recycling was a requirement and wastefulness was practically a crime. If you didn’t finish your dinner, he’d serve it to you for breakfast. Waste not, want not, what not.
From the perspective of a few lads of scout-going age the war could be lighter than it may have been for the grown men marching through the trenches. Even when they’re being as serious as only children can be. That’s what the book portrays through a series of vignettes. Short little stories that focus on a single event or activity that this scout troop (The Yellow Six) found themselves involved in. As the narratives focus on a group of boy scouts, many of the activities revolve around those involved with old Baden-Powell’s youth organisation. Other events have to do with the town in which they’re stationed. A small little village where not much seems to occur and kids are tasked with the chore of making their own fun where they can find it.
Throughout the book references to the war are made but with a light-hearted nature that can make one chuckle. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times there are pockets of light that can help lift the spirits of those who may need it most. You shouldn’t expect to have your world shattered or to be elevated by this book but if you’re equipped with even a basic sense of humour it should provide some entertainment.
