Summary of John Steinbeck's Once There Was a War

Book excerpt: Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 On the docks in England, the troops wait for the first dimout of the evening to arrive. The men wear their helmets, which make them all look alike, and they look like long rows of mushrooms. #2 The embarkation was completed at midnight. The ship remained against the pier and a light breathing sound came from deep in her. The troops were cut off now and gone from home, though they were not a hundred steps from home. #3 On the troopship, the things that can happen to so many men have started to happen. The ship is cut off now, and she can hear but cannot speak. Her outgoing radio will not be used unless she is attacked or hit by a submarine. #4 The first morning on a troopship is a mess. The problem of feeding thousands of men in such close quarters is profound. The men are rested now, and there is no room to move about. They will not be able to have any exercise during this voyage.