A tremendous read. The authors tracked interviewed all the surviving POW's from a tragic sinking at the hands of the submarine force. Had the Allies been made aware of the cargo, thru a neutral nation as the Japanese did do in other events, the convoy would have sailed safely. The hardships suffered thru just to get to the shipboard event were staggering, to then be left in the ocean for up to 6 days without food or water defies belief. The determination and raw courage displayed by these Brits and Aussies is amazing. The crews of the US subs were tireless in their efforts to recover and then care for the survivors. In the most extreme case, the sub was carrying over twice the number of people for which it was designed. The sailors gave their bunks, clothes, went on reduced rations and even gave their money (until there was no more than pocket change on board). A worthwhile read that is horrible and uplifting at the same time. ( )