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Wings of Glory

Book Synopsis

Can one tiny bird help to win a world war? Wings of Glory is a funny action-adventure story with a feathery twist, from bestselling children’s author, Dermot O’Leary, with glorious illustrations throughout by Claire Powell.

It’s 1940, and the world is at war. Linus, a swift, has always dreamed of flying with the Royal Bird Force and making a name for himself as a squadron leader. So when he and his sister, Ava, have the opportunity to volunteer, he jumps at the chance.

But it’s a dangerous journey, and Ava goes missing before they manage to reach the airfield for training. Now, Linus has two missions: help the war effort and find his sister.

Linus will face bomber planes, arrogant falcons, and a spy who’s determined to take him down…

He is brave and fast and kind – but can Linus prove that helping win the war is more about the size of your heart than the size of your wings?

Featuring courageous loop-the-loops, top secret plans and more than a smattering of bird poo, this wartime tail will make you laugh and cry – and maybe teach you a thing or two as well.

Our Review Panel says...

This is the fabulous story of Linus the sparrow as he joins the Royal Bird Force during World War II.

Linus has always dreamed of joining the Peregrine Falcons of the RBF, even leading them. When the opportunity comes to join the RBF, he, along with his sister, Eva, jumps at the chance. However, on the way, tragedy strikes and Ava is lost. Bereft, Linus joins his squadron and discovers he has a lot to learn.

This story is about determination, loyalty, family and friendship. The relationships between Linus and the animals grows from being tenuous to one of friendship and respect. I love the concept of animals, particularly birds, helping to defend the country by spying, carrying messages and attacking the enemy. The motto “in poo, we trust” will amuse young readers, as are the methods they used to bring down planes! The characters are lots of fund, the storyline is action-filled and this makes a great read for KS2.