The Little Ships: The Heroic Rescue at Dunkirk in World War II

I first learned of the Battle of Dunkirk when I read 'The Snow Goose' at the age of 11. I am sick of Harry Potter and its ilk and want my grandson to learn about stories that last. I realized he neither knows nor cares about history, nor is he so a precocious reader as I was at his age (pre-television). I decided this would have to be a gradual process, and that he will have to know about one of the great heroic events in our history before 'The Snow Goose' would be meaningful to him.To this end, I discovered 'The Little Ships' and found myself with tears in my eyes over the beauty of the writing. For example, when the little girl is relating what she sees in the water (broken planks, army coats and boots) as she and her father are ferrying the soldiers, she sums it up by ' . . . and everything soldiers leave behind when they can take only themselves.'The 'Snow Goose' will have to wait - although I certainly enjoyed reading it again. He's simply not old enough, but he's ready for 'The Little Ships.' The beauty of the writing and the wonderful illustrations will capture him. Best of all, the basic story is true. I'm buying two more copies - one for my library and one for the grade school. Children should know that, while we humans are capable of hideous acts, we are also capable of breathtaking acts of bravery, and they should be moved as they read about them.

This is a wonderful story! History can often seem dry and dull to children, but books like this make it very accessible and interesting. My son has requested I read it many times!

Although this is a picture book, it's pretty difficult reading for early elementary. I bought this for my first and second graders, but after reading it decided to save it until they're older. Until they're ready for it, I will enjoy it myself! To me it is a very real and moving account of the famous rescue of the soldiers at Dunkirk. I think it would be a good supplement to a class studying World War 2, any age from 3rd grade on up, but probably more benefit for slightly older kids. Younger kids would definitely need some preparation for the vocabulary before reading the book.

Just what we were expecting and wanting to help young ones have a "picture" of experiences other children have had! Thank you!

This a really sweet book about an actual historical event. As far as I can tell, it's pretty accurate; in addition it's well told. If you're an adult who is unfamiliar with the story of Britain's rounding-up of small, privately owned boats in the early days of WWII to help evacuate their army from France to avoid capture, you can read this too.

I thought the event was like crossing the Ptomac-all in one morning, but it took days. Great historical fiction with beautiful artwork told from the perspective of a child whose dad owns one of the little boats and is willing to be useful in a time of great need.

Heroic. Dramatic. Captured my 4, 4, and 6 year olds imagination and hearts.

Beautiful little book! Perfect way to teach children about this historic and important event.

A different kids story that I enjoyed but my kids didn't. Mine usually like adventure stories but for some reason this didn't grab them.

Well written for 10-11years olds, tells the story well.

Very moving story, on it's way to Australia, for my grandson who is always asking for a story about the war.

My 8 year old son loved this. He is a reluctant reader but this captivated him and he read from cover to cover. Wonderfully illustrated.

Very basic book, more suitable for children to read, rather than a definitive history.