September 1939. Britain is on the brink of war.
As Noah Price’s dad marches off to fight, he asks his son to honour one vital promise: that he will keep their dog, Winn, safe. No matter what. Noah agrees, but his best intentions are crushed when the government advises people to have their pets put to sleep as part of the war preparations. Children are heartbroken, queues outside vets’ surgeries stretch for miles. But Noah is a resourceful and impetuous child. He won’t just do what he is told. Far from it. With his two friends in tow, he makes a pledge. To go on the run, and save as many animals as he can, whatever the cost.
So begins the most thrilling of adventures, involving a stolen ark, a motley crew of animals and a crashed Spitfire. Can Noah possibly save the animals, and lead them all to the promised land?
I've read a previous book by Phil Earle, so I knew what to expect going into this one. I still needed tissues several times during this. It's hard to make a story this tear jerking that's also full of hope and joy, but Phil manages it.
I had heard of the British Pet Massacre before, but this really put it into perspective. I don't know what I would have done, if I were living in London then; I'd like to think I wouldn't have brought my pet to any vet, but then wouldn't that be cruel to them? It's such a hard decision to make. I'm really glad I didn't have to.
Phil has obviously done a lot of research, and - while parts of this were hard to read - it was a really good read. The characters were great, and I'm glad that we mostly found out what happened to them at the end.
Phil has a real gift, and I hope he keeps writing for a long time to come. I'll definitely be reading whatever he puts out. I'll just remember to have lots of tissues ready.
While the Storm Rages publishes on the 2nd of June, 2022. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.
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