REVIEW: Strange But True Secrets of World War II

Strange But True Secrets of World War II
Author: George Sullivan

This book features 11 stories about interesting events that happened during World War II. The title states that the events are "strange,'' but none of the stories really fit that term. Propaganda, spies, heroism, bombing and fighting strategies, and other wartime necessities are pretty much par for the course and not "strange.''   This book was not what I expected, but I did learn some new facts (like the fact that several Mafia bosses worked along with the military to protect shipping lanes and cargo by imposing rules on dock workers not to talk about cargo, and keeping war related shipments secret).

This book is middle grade appropriate. None of the facts are overly gruesome or too detailed. Some of the photos in the book are very grainy, out of focus or too dark to see well. A few of them really should have been replaced with photos that would reproduce a bit better. The stories themselves are well written and interesting. Most I had heard before, but might be new to most kids today. The book starts with a short history of the war, then presents the stories. Each story has its own chapter.

All in all, an interesting and informative collection of interesting tales about World War II. My dad fought in the war, so I enjoy reading about that era. Kids interested in history would definitely enjoy these stories.

George Sullivan is the author of several books about history including biographies of Helen Keller and Harriet Tubman.