Discover the gripping tale of Operation Semut in 'Semut: The Untold Story of Australia's Secret Operation in WWII.' This brand new trade paperback, published by Penguin Australia in 2021, provides a unique military history set against the backdrop of March 1945. As young Allied operatives parachute into the heart of Japanese-occupied Borneo, they are tasked with enlisting the indigenous Dayak people to join the fight against the Japanese. Fuelled by fear and uncertainty, these operatives struggle with language barriers and cultural differences, making their mission even more daunting.

Written by anthropologist Christine Helliwell, the book draws on her extensive research, including interviews with over a hundred Dayak individuals and Semut operatives. It reveals the crucial yet often overlooked role of the Dayaks in the guerrilla warfare campaigns along the Baram and Rejang rivers. Helliwell's immersive storytelling brings the jungles of Borneo to life, highlighting the operatives’ encounters with a world they have never known.

'Operation Semut' is not just a military narrative; it is an exploration of courage, collaboration, and cultural exchange. This compelling account is essential for history enthusiasts and those interested in the Second World War's less-known stories. With 576 pages of riveting content, this book is perfect for readers looking to delve deep into a pivotal yet often forgotten chapter of military history on the Asia-Pacific front.