Reviews

The book (titled 'Be Prepared!')was written as a semi-autobiographical account by Keith Monroe, using Rice Cochran as a pseudonym. Since he was in his 30's at the time the book was published and had been a scoutmaster for only a few years, it has been suggested that many of the experiences belonged to his father, also a scoutmaster for many years. Rumor was that the head of Boy Scouts at the time was enraged by the book, and called for the head of the author. The book, if you can find it, is an excellent read and offers profound insight into the life of a scoutmaster. Clifton Webb's portrayal as a curmudgeonly yet lovable leader, somewhat naive to the behavior of boys, is enjoyable but the movie is more fluff than substance. I must admit my bias, having earned Eagle Scout in the author's troop.