Old Haileyburians might be interested to hear, Old Hospitalian Roland Jaquarello (Christ’s Hospital, 1950s) has recently published his debut novel, Rank Insubordination!, a story inspired by his experiences at an English public school during the 1950s.

Set across the course of a school year around 1956, the novel blends humour and drama while capturing a moment of significant change in British history. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Suez Crisis, a period often seen as marking the twilight of the British Empire and a turning point for post-war Britain.

Beyond the school gates, the novel also explores the lives of parents trying to navigate the rigid hierarchy of the public-school system. For many mothers, particularly those who are widowed or divorced after the Second World War, this world proves difficult and often unwelcoming.

As the characters grapple with the realities of post-war Britain and a changing relationship with continental Europe, tensions at the school build towards an unexpected and dramatic climax.

Rank Insubordination! has already received positive feedback from readers, with comments describing it as:

“Humorous and perceptive… a rich and rewarding read.”
“A reminder that the powerful public-school culture of that era shaped our 21st century.”
“Very entertaining. A really good read.”
“The novel has a big heart and a real sense of fun.”
“Adroitly handled, with impressive period detail.”

The book is available in hardback and Kindle editions via Amazon: