The Radio Gunner

"The Radio Gunner" by Alexander Forbes is a coming-of-age story about a young man named Jim Evans, who evolves from a curious boy watching a Memorial Day parade to a dedicated radio operator in the Navy during World War I. Throughout the book, the narrative weaves together friendship, responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge against a backdrop of historical events where as a boy, Jim is deeply affected by his mother's emotions during a Memorial Day parade, reminding him of the solemnity of war. Years later, at boarding school, Jim's bravery during a fire earns him the respect of his schoolmates; coupled with with his scientific interests, the fire leads him to a successful career in the Navy, where he becomes a skilled radio operator. Jim's friendship with Sam Mortimer, whose political career becomes increasingly important, adds another layer to the story, as both friends find themselves involved in the growing conflict with European powers.