Go to it! - Asa Briggs

Two British forces played a part in the Allied victory in the Second World War. The contribution of the army, navy and RAF is well understood and appreciated. Less well known, but of equal significance, are the endeavours of those involved in the war effort at home. Looking back at the twentieth century from the vantage point of the new millennium, Go To It! is the story of the everyday heroes and heroines who, through their determination and commitment, and despite many sacrifices, made victory in Europe possible. Starting with the recruitment and enrolment of these 'civilian soldiers', Go To It! looks at the areas in which their efforts were invaluable: in the factories and on the production lines; in the fields; in the coalmines; and in the dockyards. Special attention is paid to the huge role played by women, the young and old, and those who came from other countries and continents to offer their help. Also considered are the steps that were taken to keep up morale, and the book ends with a look at the changes that accompanied the end of the war.- Published in association with the Imperial War Museum: tie-in with a major new exhibition opening March 1999 and with a new memorial to be unveiled in Coventry cathedral by the Prime Minister - Written by a leading historian and acknowledged expert in the field - Contains over 100 hitherto unseen photographs from the Imperial War Museum's archives