Collecting Colditz

A Unique Pictorial Record of Life Behind the Walls

Over forty years of research has resulted in this exceptional photographic history of life within Colditz Castle, the infamous Second World War prisoner of war camp in Germany, which housed such illustrious names as Douglas Bader, Lorne Welch, Micky Burns and Jack Best. Michael Booker has accumulated a wealth of information from talking to ex-POWs, as well as the German commandant Prawitt and the head of security Captain Eggers. He relates fascinating and hitherto unpublished stories of British, Polish and French prisoners, and their many and varied attempts to escape. In addition, he has amassed a large collection of artifacts and memorabilia, some never seen before, many of which are reproduced throughout this book. Personal recollections abound, and characters like Pat Reid, Dick Howe and Sir Rupert Barry offer their insight into camp activities. This entire collection, sumptuously illustrated, stands as a testament to those who were incarcerated there and is a valuable reference on the subject.