The Bomber Dog
by Megan Rix
This is the third in Megan Rix's animal war story series (after The Great Escape and The Victory Dogs), and her storytelling continues to be exciting, heartwarming and fascinating. In this book, we find out about the adventures of Grey, a German Shepherd dog - or Alsatian as they were known as during the war so as not to use the word 'German'. Grey is rescued as a puppy from the hands of the Germans in France by British soldiers, and taken back to Britain, where he is later discovered and cared for by Nathan, a new British army recruit. Grey's looks and talents are picked up by a Colonel in the paratroop regiment, who employs both Nathan and Grey as paratroopers, their job being dropped into enemy territory and report back on what weapons the Germans are about to use against the British. Nathan and Grey form a very close bond - both would give their lives for each other, so when their first jump into France ends in disaster and they are separated, neither will give up the search for the other.
If you like animal war stories, then also try War Horse or Shadow, both by Michael Morpurgo, and Soldier Dog by Sam Angus.
The Victory Dogs
by Megan Rix
From the author of The Great Escape (see my review) comes another beautiful story set in London during the Second World War.
Jack and Amy are the proud owners of 6-yr old collie Misty. Jack is preparing to go off to fight in the war and asks Amy to look after Misty for him. However, bombs start falling on London and Misty runs off frightened. She is also pregnant, due to give birth any minute. She is knocked over by a car and badly injured, but manages to find a safe hiding place in an underground station, where she befriends a cat called Sheba. The puppies are born and Sheba helps Misty look after them, as Misty's wounds are making her poorly and frail. Will the puppies survive war torn London, and will Amy manage to find them in time?
Yet again, another educational, moving story told with sensitivity and warmth. Megan's next book, The Bomber Dog, is out August 2013.
The Great Escape
by Megan Rix
Set during the start of World War II, the story follows the adventures of Buster (a Jack Russell), Rose (a collie) and Tiger (a ginger tomcat) as they escape the trauma of being put down and start a long journey from London to Devon, in search of their owners - 2 children called Lucy and Robert, who have been sent as evacuees to live with their grandmother.
An absolutely brilliant read, with many facts about the war which will be very educational for the 9-12yr olds. For fans of Michael Morpurgo.
Megan now has another book out with a similar war theme - The Victory Dogs.
