Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison (novel)

Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison is a 1952 novel by American author Charles Shaw. It is a war story set during World War II on a small Pacific island occupied by Japanese forces. The narrative focuses on the unlikely relationship between Corporal Allison, a tough but uneducated U.S. Marine, and Sister Angela, a young Irish nun.

After being separated from their units during a naval battle, Allison and Sister Angela find themselves stranded together on the island. They must rely on each other for survival, facing dangers that include the ever-present threat of discovery by the Japanese, hunger, disease, and the elements. The story explores themes of faith, duty, class differences, and the complexities of human relationships under extreme duress.

The novel is notable for its relatively small cast of characters and its intimate portrayal of their psychological and emotional struggles. The narrative focuses primarily on the interaction and evolving dynamic between Allison and Sister Angela as they navigate their precarious situation. While a bond of mutual respect and dependence develops, the story maintains a chaste and respectful tone, reflecting the religious vows of Sister Angela and the cultural norms of the time.

Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison was adapted into a successful 1957 film of the same name, directed by John Huston and starring Robert Mitchum and Deborah Kerr. The film adaptation closely follows the plot of the novel.