'Ian Guthrie is young and idealistic. He is contemptuous of the older generation and zealous in preserving the English tongue. He, and his Hungarian friend, are required by Australian law to register in the ballot for the national service. During their final year at school they make their final protest against this "lottery in lives" which gets them both expelled. This is the story of what happens in the following months as the registration comes closer.' (Source: WorldCat)
