If the Invader Comes (Allies 1)

Tom Palmer's latest book is the first in a new trilogy and after reading this one, I cannot wait for the next one, and the one after that!

Set in Cornwall in 1940 and 1941, If The Invader Comes is inspired by real life events and places and gives its reader an insight into the effect of the hostilities on a small coastal community. This compelling read includes themes of family, friendship, courage and bereavement.

The characters are skilfully developed; Bobble is caring yet determined, Cadan is bright and helpful, while Cilla is unstoppably fearless. After the devastating defeat of the British forces at Dunkirk, the terrifying prospect of a Nazi invasion of Britain seems ever more likely. The three children are forced into an unlikely allyship in this gripping wartime tale.

This fab historical tale by Tom Palmer is a great read, bringing focus to a significant period in time in an engaging way. If The Invader Comes will make a great choice for primary children studying WW2, sensitively highlighting aspects of the war, such as PTSD and war ethics, seldom covered by books written for this age group.

As with many books published by Barrington Stoke this book has a clear font and uncrowded layout, making it a super accessible read for growing readers and of course especially appealing to children living in Cornwall. An all round great read that should be in every KS2 classroom and I have no doubt that many children will enjoy reading and discussing the heroics of the book's three main protagonists.

208 pages / Reviewed by Sam, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 9+

Whether the central theme is football, crime, war, or all three, Tom Palmer's writing is always gripping. This latest story is no exception.

No quiet family holiday awaits Bobble, Cadan and Cilla, even if the setting is a small town in Cornwall. During World War II, Falmouth was scene to bombings, e-boat incursions and daring rescue attempts by local fishermen. Woe betide anyone who was suspected of aiding the enemy - the children's parents included. What were they up to when others were doing their duty in the Home Guard, the Royal Navy, as air raid wardens, or 'digging for victory', all for King and Country?

We get to find out, as we immerse ourselves in their uncertain world and, with bated breath, follow their dangerous escapades. Will they succeed in foiling German attack, in saving the pilot from his burning fuselage, in defusing a bomb, and - perhaps most taxing of all - keeping their work secret so that others have a fighting chance of survival?

In terms of reading level, the book will present few difficulties for Y4+ (ages 8+, thanks partly to simplicity of writing style and clarity in presentation), but in terms of content, I shall be recommending it to Y5 (ages 9+) and above, not least because it will then link to their curriculum work.

There are free resources at https://tompalmer.co.uk/if/ for classroom use, and interesting Local Studies connections to be made by Cornish schools. An excellent addition to any library or home bookshelf.

208 pages / Reviewed by Jane Rew, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 9+