It’s the Second World War as you’ve never seen it before – discover the hidden stories of incredible human spirit during the world’s darkest hour.

Everyone knows what Adolf Hitler, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Winston Churchill were doing during World War II, but what about ordinary people? In this beautifully illustrated book, war historian Hattie Hearn reveals some of the most incredible true tales from the war, including:

– The Canadian cabin boy who avoided German U-boats crossing the Atlantic
– The Navajo soldiers who developed a secret code to outfox their enemies
– The African-American jazz singer who worked as a spy for the French Resistance

Beautifully illustrated by Margarida Esteves and featuring stories from all over the world, Tales of World War II also contains jaw-dropping tales including the dog used to find survivors in the London Blitz, the champion cyclist who carried secret messages to help Jews escape the Nazis, and the bear who was recruited by the Polish army!

Interspersed throughout the stories are pages explaining the key events of the war – from Pearl Harbor and Dunkirk to D-Day and the Holocaust.

"There are many accounts of people’s actions that really are amazing and quite a few that I was unaware of... I am sure young readers will be fascinated to read them... A useful book if a class is studying WWII." * Just Imagine *
"This wonderful volume, though aimed at children and teenagers, will undoubtedly teach adults something new. The book is packed with information and illustrated in a way that makes complex topics digestible... Highly recommended to anyone who is interested in learning more about this important period in history." * The Manhattan *

Dr Hattie Hearn has a passion for World War II that was ignited by a childhood spent exploring the forgotten wartime airfields of her native East Anglia. Since those early years, she's made a career out of researching and preserving the hidden histories of the world around her, from old country houses to long lost ancestors. She works as the curator of the RAF Radar Museum in Norfolk, UK. When she's not exploring dusty archives, she's spending time with her husband, rescue dog, and two naughty guinea pigs.

Margarida Esteves is an illustrator based in South London. She works digitally and likes to use bold and bright colours, lots of details, and rich textures. Maps, landscapes, and ballet dancers are Margarida’s favourite things to draw. People, films, photography, and vintage illustration inspire her – with history holding a special place in her heart!