First published in 1969, Yates' third book concerns the dual exploits of an awkward infantry soldier in World War II and his mother, a deluded sculptor living in New York City.

Robert Prentice is drafted after graduating high school and enters World War II during its final days.

When he returns to his unit he continues to struggle but finally achieves a kind of acceptance.

This narrative is interspersed with scenes from his childhood viewed from the perspective of his mother, Alice Prentice.

Zadie Smith described the novel as being "like Breakfast At Tiffany's spliced with All Quiet On The Western Front.