On the Wings of Heroes (U)

The drastic hardships brought on by the onset of World War II are seen through the perspective of young Davy. His brother has joined the fight to his father's consternation, his mother is working, food is rationed, and Davy spends his time collecting rubber, metal, even milkweed fluff for the war effort. It is an intense and confusing time, one which may force Davy to grow up in a hurry. Still, Richard Peck is a master of comedy, and even in this novel of wartime uncertainty, he infuses his tale with humor: oddballs and rascals and boyhood misadventures alongside the poignant moments. This is one of Richard Peck's very finest novels — a tender, unforgettable portrait of the World War II homefront and a family's love.