IFP announces 'The Soldier and the Christmas Tree' book

13-May-2025 • Literary

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It is 1942, three weeks before Christmas, and the war is blazing over London. Arthur Pryor is sent on a top secret mission to Germany-occupied Norway as part of a highly-trained unit. He does not know why Commander Ian Fleming has sent them, or what they will find there. All he knows is that he must make it home to his son before Christmas day. He promised.

The Soldier and the Christmas Tree is a heartwarming tale of family and war, inspired by the true story of the first Christmas tree to be placed in Trafalgar Square, due in large part to the covert actions of James Bond creator Ian Fleming and his commando unit during the Second World War.

From the streets of London to the forests of Norway, this is an adventure filled with the horrors of war and the magic of Christmas.

Written by Ian Fleming Publications Publishing Director Simon Ward, this perfect seasonal read also includes an essay on the real-life historical incident.

Releasing on September 25th 2025, The Soldier and the Christmas Tree will be published in hardback, perfectly sized to fit inside a stocking!

This festive tale has been penned by Simon Ward, who as well as being our Publishing Director is also a writer of fiction and non-fiction, having published over a dozen books on cinema.

You can pre-order a copy here.