"The Guns of Navarone" is a novel written by Alistair MacLean, published in 1957. The story is set during World War II and follows a group of Allied commandos tasked with a dangerous mission to destroy a pair of massive German artillery guns located on the fictional Navarone island. These guns threaten Allied naval operations in the Aegean Sea. The novel combines elements of adventure, suspense, and military strategy, showcasing the challenges faced by the team as they navigate enemy territory. It has been praised for its gripping plot and well-developed characters, leading to a successful film adaptation in 1961.