by Miriam Halahmy (Author)
It is late August 1939: Britain is on the brink of war, and preparations are under way to evacuate London's children to the countryside. When twelve-year-old Tilly and her best friend Rosy find out that they will not be able to take their beloved dog and cat with them - and that, even worse, their pets will, along with countless other animals, be taken to the vet to be put down - they decide to take action. The two girls come up with the idea of hiding them in a derelict hut in the woods and, when other children find out and start bringing their rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters, their secret den turns into an emergency zoo.Inspired by real events during the Second World War, Miriam Halahmy's novel is a touching tale of courage, resourcefulness and camaraderie in desperate times, as well as a stirring defence of animal welfare.
Format: paperback
Publisher: Alma Books Ltd
Published:
ISBN 10: 1846883970
ISBN 13: 9781846883972
Children’s book age: 9-11 Years
A tremendous book for a gentle exploration of one small facet of the Second World War. - Minerva Reads
Miriam Halahmy has written a warm and touching story of friendship, courage and loyalty. A lovely and moving book. Highly recommended for 10+. - The Historical Novel Society
Inspired by real events during the Second World War, this is a touching tale of courage, resourcefulness and camaraderie in desperate times. - Junior News & Mail
This is a sympathetic and moving story of a side of war that doesn't receive much attention and fills a gap in children's war literature. - Childtastic Books
This book is sure to be enjoyed by animal-lovers, history enthusiasts and fans of children outsmarting the grown-ups. - The Library Girl and Book Boy
A classic den-in-the-woods adventure for age nine to 12 and a subtle fable about asylum seekers - The Jewish Chronicle
A tautly written and compelling novel, it is a stirring defence of animal welfare - The Lady Magazine
It's a story that needed to be told - what happened to animals before and during the war is glossed over. By telling the story in such a compassionate manner, from the viewpoint of children, the author has enlightened us and given us a new understanding - Parents in Touch