In Crete 1941: an epic poem, Bernard Cadogan relates the story of the New Zealand-led defence of Crete during the Battle of Crete between 20 May and 1 June 1941. More than just a war story, Crete 1941 brings women back into the historic struggle for the island.

This 2475-line poem is a life-changing reflection on the virtue of small nations, on the contribution of indigenous people such as Māori and Cretans to international developments, and on the fragility that both peace and its disruptors share.