A Boy Scout patrol in Finland finds they are at war with Russia when WW 2 breaks out; they are a mixed bunch of boys, Finns and Lapps including an English one whose father is there on business. They were the Reindeer Patrol but when they decide to act behind the lines, they rename themselves Phantom Patrol.
This is a fun, exciting and scary book as the adventures are well realised and the enemy naturally are armed. A local boy is best at woodcraft in the snow and they all ski well. Scouting lessons are put to good use and we see excellent teamwork.
The author, an English man, was a great supporter of Scouting and the book was written in 1940.
A. R. Channel is one of the pseudonyms of Arthur Catherall Other books by A. R. Channel are: The Fighting Four 1958. Operation V.2. 1960. The Tunnel Busters 1960. Million Dollar ice floe 1961. Arctic Spy 1962. The Forgotten Patrol 1962 The Rogue Elephant 1962. Mission Accomplished 1964 Red Ivory 1964. Jungle Rescue 1968.
Rip-roaring story from the 1940's. The plot raced along, albeit in what is now rather anachronistic language. The historical background was extremely interesting and this added to the enjoyment.