Stand By! Naval Sketches and Stories

"Stand By! Naval Sketches and Stories" by H. Taprell Dorling is a series of tales about life in the Royal Navy during World War I. Mainly about junior officers, the collection highlights their struggles, friendships, and funny moments on board ships. One story follows a young, unsure officer’s first assignment on a destroyer, where during a dangerous night he battles seasickness and uncertainty. Readers witness his growth into a skilled officer, who is more confident and ready to navigate both ship management and interpersonal connections. The author uses fictional stories to illustrate the mood, teamwork, and funny side of naval experiences.