'Meticulously researched, expertly plotted and sensitively written, this moving story of friendship and bravery will have younger readers gripped.' - Cathy Faulkner, author of Digging for Victory.
'Relatable characters, a page-turning plot and authentic period detail . . . reminded me of the enduring, quality storytelling of the books of my childhood e.g. The Railway Children,Carrie's War and Tom's Midnight Garden.' - Lis Jardine, author of The Detention Detectives.
From award-winning author Tia Fisher comes an unforgettable wartime story of friendship, courage, and one boy's heart-wrenching quest for the truth. Perfect for fans of Phil Earle and Michael Morpurgo.
It's 1944 and Stan's hopes of keeping his family together until the war is over are shattered when his father signs up to fight. Left with his mother in Croydon as Hitler sends over waves of V1 rockets, Stan suffers endless air-raid sirens and long nights in the cramped Anderson shelter they share with their neighbours.
Then comes the news they were dreading: his father is missing, presumed killed. But Stan refuses to give up hope, and when a mysterious piece of doodlebug shrapnel holds crucial information from a prisoner of war, he and his friends run away to track down the truth.
A gripping World War Two adventure based on true events in the Doodlebug Summer of 1944, from Carnegie Shadower's Choice winner Tia Fisher. Illustrated with impactful black-and-white art by Manuel Šumberac.
256 pages
9781835872383
Details
05 November 2026
256 pages
9781835872383
Imprint: Piccadilly Press
Reviews
“Operation Doodlebug is a page-turning WW2 story which doesn't flinch from harsh truths. Tia Fisher shines a light on ordinary people showing extraordinary resilience. It's heartfelt and gripping, with masterful storytelling. I loved it.”JASBINDER BILAN, author of ASHA AND THE SPIRIT BIRD, JASBINDER BILAN, author of ASHA AND THE SPIRIT BIRD
“Gorgeously written, full of rich historical detail and brimming with heart, Operation Doodlebug is sure to become a classic. I adored it.”LAURA NOAKES, author of COSIMA UNFORTUNATE STEALS A STAR, LAURA NOAKES, author of COSIMA UNFORTUNATE STEALS A STAR
“Meticulously researched, expertly plotted and sensitively written, this moving story of friendship and bravery will have them gripped. I'm recommending it to everyone!”Cathy Faulkner, author of DIGGING FOR VICTORY, Cathy Faulkner, author of DIGGING FOR VICTORY
“Fans of Goodnight Mister Tom will LOVE this book, which is the perfect introduction to the Home Front for middle grade readers.”Matthew Fox, author of THE LOVELY DARK, Matthew Fox, author of THE LOVELY DARK
