by Richard Harris.
Hardback (5.0×7.3 inches). 144 pages. 2026.
Pipes are basically public address announcements on a British Royal Navy ship. They range from the serious, like calling the crew to fight a fire, to the frivolous, such as pranks. As the author served for 31 years in the RN and retired as a Commodore, you’ll get a wide variety of announcements, including routine drills, unique personnel assignments, and special events that have the bonus of explaining something about shipboard life.
The book slings a lot of slang. Fortunately, the translations helps us landlubbers understand it all. The book concludes with a traditional crossing of the equator ceremony, complete with pre-ritual pipes and dialogue from the ceremony itself.
The book contains 10 cartoons.
It’s a fast read, with more than a few chuckles within.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
