The Bone Collectors

by Brian Callison

World War 2, Fontana 1st paperback, convoy vs U Boat

Genres: Novels

256 pages, Paperback

First published February 12, 2012

About the author

Brian Callison was a British novelist known for his best-selling thrillers and sea stories. Born in Manchester, England in 1934, he was educated at the High School of Dundee, and went to sea at the age of 16 as an apprentice with the Blue Funnel Line, sailing aboard cargo ships between ports in Europe and East Asia. Callison subsequently studied at Dundee College of Art in Scotland, and went into business. His first published novel, A Flock of Ships, appeared in 1970. In 2008 he completed a three-year appointment as a Fellow of The Royal Literary Fund at the University of Dundee, mentoring staff and students in all aspects of practical writing.
Callison died in Dundee on 5 February 2024, at the age of 89.

Reviews

[Ari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another one from Callison to the Atlantic Convoy Genre. Not quite as brilliant and original as "Flock of Ships" I read a month ago or so. But good anyway, if you like novels about WWII.

The little difference compared to most of convoy stories was the commercial merchant ship perspective - the perspective of the unarmed, helpless U-boat targets who hoped to survive the voyage through lurking German wolf packs without any means of self protection. Fleeing, praying and cursing. Trying to escape in order to survive.
Against all odds taking in the consideration that they were even slower than the hunting U-boats and protected by just a few escorts which just couldn't be everywhere.

A viewpoint to a butchery on high seas, in black cold night illuminated by explosions and burning ships. And a respectful salute to the men who gave their lives or health when doing these hellish journeys.

You can guess that the story was gloomy and depressing. The heroism wasn't anything like a knight in shining armor but like a bow to the inevitable. Doing a job which had to be done by somebody.

Saattuetaistelu
TAMMI 1984

[Steve822 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this with a job lot of 1980's books (e.g. Desmond Bagley) with the intention of ripping through each book, enjoying them but then forgetting them but this one has stayed in the mind. Well written, informative and with believable characters it brings to the fore the sacrifices made by the Merchant Navy (and foreign allied seamen). The ending was poignant and thought provoking. I will certainly read more of Callison's work.

[David Flett · Rating 3 out of 5]

utterly depressing,too close to the reality.

[tracybookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a very slow starter. Not my usual genre but it was an ok read for a change. Would definately appeal more to someone into this genre.

[Iain Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I dont think anyone does Naval warfare and seaborne mayhem with more aplomb than Callison. Humorous, biting, pithy and poignant - if you like stories set on the sea and ships these are amongst the very best

[David Sockett · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am just starting out reading Brian Callinson. About halfway into this book, not the action war book I expected however his build up with the characters are good, so far a pleasing read.