The Forgotten Highlander cover art

The Forgotten Highlander

My Incredible Story of Survival During the War in the Far East

 Preview

Get 30 days of Standard free

£5.99/mo after trial. Cancel monthly.
Try for £0.00
More purchase options
Buy Now for £17.94

Buy Now for £17.94

About this listen

Alistair Urquhart was a soldier in the Gordon Highlanders captured by the Japanese in Singapore. He not only survived working on the notorious Bridge on the River Kwai, but he was subsequently taken on one of the Japanese 'hellships' which was torpedoed. Nearly everyone else on board died and Urquhart spent 5 days alone on a raft in the South China Sea before being rescued by a whaling ship. He was taken to Japan and then forced to work in a mine near Nagasaki. Two months later a nuclear bomb dropped just ten miles away . . .

This is the extraordinary story of a young men, conscripted at nineteen and whose father was a Somme Veteran, survived not just one, but three close encounters with death - encounters which killed nearly all his comrades.

©2010 Alistair Urquhart (P)2025 Hachette Audio UK Military & War China Imperial Japan War
All stars
Most relevant
I’ve heard and read a lot about the atrocities of the river kwai, never from a first hand account before though. The detail and story is one of the most unbelievable tales of perseverance I’ve ever heard.

Wow - what a story.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
This is the most compelling story of human survival against all the odds. I don't think anyone will be able to get there head around how Alistair managed to survive such brutally and hardship.
Its extremely sad to hear how the POWs were treated and forgotten about.
I will never forget this story of human endeavour when all hope is lost. God bless you Alistair and your friends you will never be forgotten.

Most incredible story I have ever heard

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
"ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE - 5 STARS ISN'T ENOUGH!!!

This book is a gut-wrenching, soul-stirring, and unforgettable read that left me breathless and tearful. The author's courageous story of survival and determination in the face of unimaginable hardship is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and bravery.

I was utterly humbled by the sacrifices of these young heroes, who fought for our freedoms with unwavering dedication and endurance. Their stories deserve to be told, and I'm forever grateful to the author for sharing his.

A poignant tribute to the brave men and women who served, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the true cost of freedom. Rest in peace, dear author, and may your story inspire generations to come. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM."

Human endurance and resilience at its finest

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
Stupendous account of the most horrendous 6 years in war and as prisoner - so well written and narrated. So sorry prisoners that returned were treated so appallingly! Truly humbled and grateful for this memoir. Thank you for your bravery, compassion and strength.

Depth of real life in war

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
Absolutely heartbreaking what war does and what fellow man is capable of whether in evil deeds or courage and endurance. R.I.P. all those who have died.

Heartbreaking

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
See more reviews