"A Town Like Alice" is a novel by Nevil Shute that tells the story of Jean Paget, a young Englishwoman during World War II. Captured by the Japanese in Malaya, she endures hardships alongside other prisoners. After the war, she inherits money and decides to help build a new community in Australia. The narrative explores themes of resilience, love, and the impact of war. As Jean works to create a thriving town, she also seeks to reconnect with Joe Harman, a man she met during her captivity. Their relationship develops against the backdrop of post-war challenges.