Hi Jet--this book was a paperback printed in the late 1940s or early 1950s. As far as I know--it hasnt been reprinted since then.

Basically--the book the movie is based on is about captured German Soldiers who are recruited by the Allies. They endure training and sent on milkrun missions until they prove themselves. Then they are sent behind the German lines to gather info on troop movements for the allies.

Once they get the info required--they are to report back to Allied lines. In the movie--the recruited soldier nicknamed "Tiger" went with Lt Rennik to Mannheim--and "Happy" was dropped elsewhere. "Happy" eventually and barely makes it to where the others are in Mannheim.

The mission gets compromised fro "Happy" somewhat early on as he is being followed by some Gestapo--who are posing as ordinary German SOldiers. One gains his trust somewhat and they travel together--which is fine for "happy" but his companion is actually just doing this as a way to "keep an eye on happy" making his job easier.

Something goes wrong and "Happy" discovers it and does his best to move along--and then eventually heads to Mannheim--where his two companions are.

They get turned in to authorities by "Tigers" nephew--who is in the Hitler Youth and is out to make a name for himself.

These 3 men just barely escapt the Gendarmerie and along the way--"Tiger" decides he no longer wants par tof the group--attempt to flee and is killed bu Lieutnant Rennik.

Rennik and "Happy" swim for freedom--making the first way through the lines--but "Happy" has to give up because of his bad leg and turns himself over to German Authorities. Rennik is the only one to make it back---alive.

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Lost are only those, who abandon themselves) Hans-Ulrich Rudel.