The book is full of jealousy*, sadness, joy and anger. Author Michael Morpurgo has done a very good job of hooking the reader into the story and making them read on and on.

    Thomas Peaceful, like many other English soldiers in World War I, is too young to fight, but he lies about his age. Now at the front in France with his older brother Charlie, he stands a lonely nighttime vigil* for reasons that are not explained until the book’s end, watching the minutes tick by and thinking about his past.

    Using first-person narration, Morpurgo draws readers into this young man’s life, relating memories that are idyllic*, calming, and poignant*.

    Thomas thinks upon the role he played in his father’s accidental death, the adventures* that he shared with Charlie, his relationship with his childhood friend Molly, and the experiences that he has had since entering the war.

    Finally, he describes how Charlie disobeyed a direct order to stay with him after he was wounded in action, fully aware of this decision’s serious consequences*.

    While readers see the events through Thomas’ eyes, the author does not lose sight of the war’s effects on the teen’s friends and family. This thoughtful novel touches on themes of humanity and duty, and features brilliant characters whose personal decisions have earned them their very own badges* of honor.

    Morpurgo is one of Britain’s best-loved children’s book writers.

    This book is a great read for anyone no matter what genre of books they like. This is why it has won so many awards such the Red House children’s book award in 2004.

    Both Chinese, English and bilingual versions are available at online bookstores.(SD-Agencies)