D-Day: The World War II invasion that changed history by Deborah Hopkinson

I am really getting into Scholastic's new nonfiction imprint, Focus. This title revisits what one might think is a well-known event - D-Day in World War II - but under Hopkinson's excellent treatment it takes on a whole new dimension.

This carefully crafted narrative divides the story of D-Day into the planning stage, the final moments, traveling across the channel and the early attacks, and then expands on two main fronts - Utah and Omaha - and sums up the narrative in a final chapter.

Within this framework, meticulous research, quotations, original documents, and interviews fill the pages. Hopkinson does not neglect those who are often forgotten - sections telling readers about the roles played by women and African-Americans are included as well. She analyzes the approach, the challenges, and the horrors of war through the voices of the people who were there. Maps, sketches, and links to online resources are included throughout. At the end of each sub-chapter is a section entitled "Look, Listen, Remember" which links readers to additional resources. For example, chapter 9 "Pegasus Bridge" tells the story of glider pilots who embarked the evening before D-Day, going inland to France as backups to the main attack. The additional materials for this chapter include links to a photo of the bridge and memorial museum, a mention of a film and book in which the bridge plays a part, and a link for more information about World War II gliders.

Extensive back matter is included in the "Quartermaster's Department" including a timeline, glossary, notes, links, extensive sources, and much more.

While this would require a strong reader, and Hopkinson doesn't shy away from the horror and tragedy of war and the suffering and death that accompanied this historic event, she does not dwell heavily on graphic scenes. It has always been my contention that if middle grade readers are interested in history, especially in war, they should not be given sanitized versions of events. This will interest World War II buffs who will appreciate the extensive research, facts, and statistics; kids interested in history will learn many new aspects about this famous event; and reluctant readers will be drawn into the very human thoughts and actions of the soldiers and the fast-paced, intense action.

Verdict: An excellent and definitive work for middle school and high school readers, with interest for younger middle grade readers who are ready for this depth of history as well. Highly recommended.

ISBN: 9780545682480; Published August 2018 by Scholastic Focus; Galley provided by the publisher