Alistair MacLean was a well-known British writer whose books and stories were very popular. He wrote 28 thrilling novels and adventure stories, and also worked as a screenwriter. His books sold more than 150 million copies, and 18 films were made based on his works. In 1983, the University of Glasgow awarded him a doctorate of letters. During World War II, MacLean served in the navy, took part in military operations and in polar convoys, which inspired him to write his best books. His debut novel “The U-boat / His Majesty’s Ship ‘Ulysses’” became one of the best foreign war novels based on the story of an allied convoy heading to northern ports of the Soviet Union.