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Ultra Hush-hush: Espionage and Special Missions

by Stephen Shapiro and Tina Forrester, David Craig, illus.

The current world political climate might make it difficult for parents and librarians to consider buying a book about spying during the Second World War. But then again, Ultra Hush-Hush, first in a new series on that conflict, does lead off with that famous George Santayana quote: “Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it.”

It is in that spirit of remembrance that co-authors Stephen Shapiro (a Toronto-based military expert) and Tina Forrester (a veteran writer of books for young people) have woven together 19 tales of double-crosses, counter-spy missions, code-making and -breaking, aerial and underwater reconnaissance and the like, all of which make for absolutely fascinating reading for any young reader with a historical turn of mind.

Shapiro and Forrester combine just the right amount of gee-isn’t-that-cool amazement over nifty spy gadgets with the more serious tone required of a book about global conflict. The authors’ words are brought to life by a combination of vibrant illustrations, by Toronto historical artist David Craig, and copious black-and-white photos.

Graphically and via short biographical sketches, the book profiles well-known leaders such as Churchill, Hitler, and Roosevelt. As well, lesser-known figures are covered such as Lieutenant-Captain Durand de la Penne, Italian mastermind of a highly manoeuvrable underwater sabotage vehicle called the “pig,” and Major Jasper Maskelyne and his Magic Gang, whose stage show kept troops entertained while they performed behind-the-scenes stunts that contributed to Nazi defeat in North Africa.

Also useful for putting the whole Second World War spy scene in context are several colour maps that illustrate important facts about the wartime balance of power. Did you know, for example, that Portugal was Spy Central during the conflict? Numerous definitions of important espionage terms and acronyms are sprinkled throughout.

There are lots of excellent books for young readers out there about the Second World War and spying. But this one will take its place among the very best of them.

 

Reviewer: Paul Challen

Publisher: Annick Press

DETAILS

Price: $29.95

Page Count: 96 pp

Format: Cloth

ISBN: 1-55037-779-5

Issue Date: 2003-5

Categories:

Age Range: ages 8-12