In 1980, the book was the subject of a 4-part television mini-series by the BBC. Bates also excels at evoking a sense of place much of the story occurs over the course of a hot summer in rural France, and there are many beautiful descriptions of the French countryside as it bakes in the summer heat. Set against the horrors of war, it takes on a life-affirming force, enhanced by the simple, yet elegant prose of the author.

Fair Stood the Wind for France rises above the average romance, however. He and his crew make their way to an isolated farmhouse and are taken in by the family of a French farmer. The pilot falls in love with the home-owner's daughter, their relationship grows and eventually they travel together across France, seeking a way back to England. The story concerns John Franklin, the pilot of a Wellington bomber, who badly injures his arm when he crash-lands the aircraft in German- occupied France during the Second World War. Cecile Paoli is beautiful as Francoise, like an unassuming but mesmerising madonna.The story is moving, with understated emphasis on the heart and relationship as in so much of H E Bates' writing. However, the pilot, injured during the plane's landing, must remain in France to heal, while his crew begin their journey back to friendly territory. Beautifully filmed,set and acted in a gentle slightly dated way ,so refreshing and which sadly makes the 20thc seem farther away even than it is. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. The men are taken in by a French family who hide them in their home. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for FAIR STOOD THE WIND FOR FRANCE at. Bates' fictional account of a downed English bomber-pilot and his crew over occupied France during World War II. Description: Fair Stood the Wind for France, first published in 1944, is author H.

Fair stood the wind for france review