Prisoner's Pie is a rare and remarkable glimpse into the resilience, intellect, and humor of Allied prisoners of war interned in Camp 'N' Argyle Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, during World War II. Originally compiled and circulated in 1942 under extraordinary circumstances, this one-of-a-kind
publication captures the spirit of those who found dignity and creativity in the face of captivity.
Rediscovered decades later and brought back into circulation by Paul King, Prisoner's Pie is both a historical artifact and a moving tribute to the men who endured life in a Japanese POW camp with wit, satire, and determination. The book offers a vivid snapshot of daily life within the barbed wire: editorials, essays, debates, theatrical reviews, military satire, poetry, sport commentary, weather reports, and even crossword puzzles-each page brimming with life, irony, and the enduring power of the written word.
This facsimile-style edition preserves the tone, humor, and literary nuance of the original camp magazine. Readers will meet the likes of Bombardier Higgins, explore fictional debates between military minds and civilian officers, and discover how prisoners sustained morale through debate, theater, and even rat-hunting escapades. With contributions from officers and enlisted men alike, Prisoner's Pie reflects a community striving to remain intellectually and emotionally alive during one of history's darkest chapters.
A dedication to the memory of Brigadier Torquil MacLeod and his fellow POWs runs through every page. Paul King's introduction contextualizes the recovery of this publication and the unique legacy it represents-a small but defiant act of humanity in wartime.
More than a historical document, Prisoner's Pie is a testament to the unbreakable spirit of those who endured the unendurable. It will resonate with readers of military history,
wartime memoirs, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the resilience of the human spirit when faced with unimaginable adversity.
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History