Now the Hell Will Start

Now The Hell Will Start Book Cover

Now the Hell Will Start: One Soldier's Flight from the Greatest Manhunt of World War II is a non-fiction book that delves into the harrowing tale of Herman Perry, an African-American soldier stationed in the India-Burma theater during World War II. The book, authored by Brendan I. Koerner, explores themes of racial discrimination, the harsh realities of war, and the lengths to which individuals will go to escape their circumstances. It was published by Penguin Press in 2008.

Synopsis

The narrative centers around Herman Perry, who, overwhelmed by the brutal conditions of the jungle warfare and the racism within the United States Army, deserts his post. What follows is an extraordinary tale of survival, as Perry becomes a fugitive, evading the largest manhunt ever conducted by the U.S. military at that time. The book provides a detailed account of Perry's life before his enlistment, his experiences in the army, his eventual desertion, and the life he tries to build while on the run. Perry's story is set against the backdrop of the CBI Theater (China-Burma-India), a lesser-known front of World War II, which Koerner meticulously describes, bringing to light the complexities and the geopolitical significance of the region during the war.

Themes and Analysis

Now the Hell Will Start explores several significant themes, including the impact of racism and segregation within the military, the psychological effects of warfare on soldiers, and the struggle for survival in an unforgiving environment. Koerner uses Perry's story to highlight the broader issues of racial discrimination and the challenges faced by African-American soldiers during World War II. The book also examines the concept of desertion, not just as a military offense but as a desperate act of self-preservation in the face of insurmountable odds.

Reception

The book received critical acclaim for its thorough research, engaging narrative, and the light it sheds on a largely forgotten chapter of World War II history. Critics praised Koerner's ability to weave together military history, personal biography, and social commentary into a compelling story. Now the Hell Will Start has been recognized for bringing attention to the experiences of African-American soldiers in World War II, contributing to the broader understanding of their role and the challenges they faced.

Legacy

Now the Hell Will Start contributes to the historical record by illuminating the experiences of African-American soldiers in World War II, a topic that has often been overlooked in mainstream military history. The book serves as a reminder of the complexities of war, the human cost of racial discrimination, and the extraordinary lengths to which individuals will go to seek freedom and justice. It has become a valuable resource for historians, scholars, and readers interested in military history, African-American history, and the human stories behind the global conflict of World War II.