Shell Shock
Shell Shock: The diary of Tommy Atkins.
Neil's debut novel chronicles the difficulties faced by Tommy, a 23-year-old squaddie, as he desperately tries to conquer post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – shell shock. His over-emotional responses to the stresses of everyday life – post-office queues, a trip to Ikea, and his relationship with his family and girlfriend – eventually lead to alienation and suicidal urges.
Written in epistolery form it charts Tommy's first year in civvy street.
Told in the vernacular, with humour and personal understanding, the story highlights the work of the Charity Combat Stress in rehabilitating returning troops.
£1 from every copy is being donated to Combat Stress.
For in-depth reviews of the book, please go to the "Reviews" page.
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Praise for SHELL SHOCK:
‘A vivid and compassionate portrayal of an ex-soldier having to cope with post-traumatic stress syndrome, and it shows just how important is the work of charities such as Combat Stress.’ - General Sir Mike Jackson
‘This is a book that society should be talking about to better understand the realities of contemporary conflict.’ - Colonel TJ Hodgetts CBE L/RAMC
'An important book because it addresses a very modern problem... a glimpse into that world of confusion, doubt and dislocation. Whilst it is a fiction, perhaps for the young man next to you on the train or on the football terrace, it is a reality.' - Colonel Tim Collins