Pigeon Hero!

December 1, 2003
Gr 1-3-This early reader tells the true story of a World War II homing pigeon, G. I. Joe, and the important messages he carried through enemy lines to save an Italian town. For his brave mission, the bird received a medal from the Lord Mayor of London and finished out his life in the comfort of the Detroit Zoo. Brief author notes give some additional information on the use of pigeons during war. The simple, accessible language occasionally detracts from the action ("Flap, flap, flap. The hawk did not catch him"). The watercolor-pencil illustrations show appropriate period details and give G. I. Joe a perky, alert look befitting his hero status. For collections that need nonfiction beginning readers, this one will be a useful addition.-Ellen M. Riordan, Enoch Pratt Free Library, Baltimore, MD

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2004
In this interesting and little-known historical anecdote, a carrier pigeon named G. I. Joe transports a message to American troops during WWII and prevents the bombing of an Italian village. Despite some unfortunate anthropomorphizing ("G. I. Joe was not afraid"; "G. I. Joe was smart"), the easy-to-read text and uncluttered illustrations will be accessible to beginning readers.

(Copyright 2004 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)