What I like about this collection of four historical fiction stories focusing on the home front, is that it is powerfully irresistible reading. Set in Scotland, Portsmouth, Sunderland and Northampton, these stories cover aspects of life in the time of the Second World War, including evacuees, spies, rationing and the black market as well as preparing the country for bomb attacks.
The first and best story is the one about a boy's experience of evacuation. The boy is based on a real character so this has an extra level of authenticity unlike other stories that, while being historically realistic, are not specific but give a typical experience for children from that time. I was totally gripped by this tale. There is some of the usual humour that we expect from Deary, but the stories somehow feel more serious. Gone are the usual classroom or fun activities at the end of each story as in the other books in the series, although the historical notes provide enough information for deep discussion. Fascinating and readable, young readers will enjoy this book as there is suspense and a hint of danger to keep up the interest. Accompanied by excellent illustrations by James de la Rue in the classic tradition, not cartoony or mocking. Reminds me of my own childhood reading. A great introduction to history. Excellent.
Published by Bloomsbury Education on 9 October 2025.
Advance review copy supplied by the publisher.
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