Christine Sanderson (VOYA, October 2006 (Vol. 29, No. 4))
Hartnett's novel is a war story that focuses on a different type of bravery. Lieutenant Shepard, a British soldier fleeing the battlefield in France during World War I, is discovered in the woods by two little girls, Marcelle and Coco. They agree to help him return home. Their brother Pascal and adult friend Fabrice devise a plan to get him across the English Channel. In exchange for their help, the lieutenant tells tales inspired by his good luck charm, a miniature silver donkey. The stories stress a donkey's virtues: courage, patience, humility, and forgiveness. These virtues also apply to the lieutenant, despite the fact that he has "run away from the war," and to Fabrice, who although crippled by polio, still offers his help. "I will help get you there, and then I will know that I, too, can do something worthwhile.÷ Although Harnett does not gloss over the horrors of war-"Hunched at his feet was a young man. Blood was washing from him, drenching his uniform"-the focus of this story is peace. The writing is filled with simple images. "The trees whispered mellowly to each other." The soldier's tales convey the notion that true courage means service to others. Powers's illustrations complete the mood with their quiet beauty. Readers who, like the character Pascal, are looking for the excitement of the battlefield will not find it here. This war story will appeal to readers who are looking for peace, tranquility, and unlikely heroes. VOYA CODES: 4Q 4P M J (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 2006, Candlewick, 272p., $15.99. Ages 11 to 15.