In Harm's Way: JFK, World War II, and the Heroic Rescue of PT 109

by Iain C. Martin

In October 1941, young Jack Kennedy was appointed an Ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve. After completing training and eager to serve, he volunteered for combat duty in the Pacific and was appointed commander of PT-109.
On August 2, 1943, Kennedy's PT-109 and two others were on a night mission to ambush an enemy supply convoy when they were surprised by a massive Japanese destroyer. The unsuspecting Americans had only seconds to react as the Japanese captain turned his ship to ram directly into Kennedy's. PT-109 was cut in half by the collision, killing two of Kennedy's twelve crewmen and wounding several others in the explosion.
In Harm's Way tells the gripping story of what happened next as JFK fought to save his surviving crew members who found themselves adrift in enemy waters. Photographs round out the exciting narrative in the first book to cover this adventurous tale for young readers.

*******

Praise for In Harm's Way:

The oft-told story of young John F. Kennedy’s World War II heroism is recounted in a fast-paced, gripping narrative... Martin tells the story in vigorous prose amply laced with quotations, taking care to include the stories of the Melanesian men who rescued Kennedy and his crew... An admiring, inspiring portrait of a courageous and selfless natural-born leader. -- Kirkus

In this well-researched, dramatic account of JFK’s life, with a particular emphasis on his naval career, Martin reprises famous events in short, riveting chapters enhanced by abundant photographs, World War II facts and trivia, Kennedy family scrapbook items, and quotations from contemporary writings. -- Publisher's Weekly

Martin deftly breathes new life into the familiar story of John F. Kennedy; the 1943 sinking of his boat, the PT-109, off the Solomon Islands; and the breathtaking survival of JFK and 10 members of his crew... It’s an epic story that deserves being discovered by a new generation of readers for whom it will be a revelation and may well inspire further reading. --Michael Cart, Booklistonline.com

An engaging war story about a popular president, this title will entice those with interest in presidential and military history.–Margaret Nunes, Gwinnett County Public Library, GA – School Library Journal

Martin provides a fast-paced account of JFK's heroic actions as commander of a patrol torpedo boat attacked by a Japanese destroyer in 1943. Exceptionally well-researched and -written, the book dramatically portrays Kennedy's courageous efforts to protect his badly injured crew. Captioned archival photos of the Kennedy family and of JFK as a naval skipper are included, in addition to fascinating WWII "Facts and Trivia" sidebars. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.
--Spring 2019 Horn Book Guide Reviews.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Biography, War, Middle Grade, World War II, Childrens

256 pages, Hardcover

First published July 31, 2018

About the author

Iain C. Martin is a freelance writer and historian with a MA in American history from Southern Connecticut State University. Originally from Owego, New York, he now resides in Connecticut with his wife and two young children.

Reviews

[Pumkin pie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very gripping story about survival in the middle of the ocean in World War II. I was astonished and interested by this great story of JFK's PT boat being wrecked apart, and leaving him and his crew stranded. I reccomend this book to people who enjoy history and WWII.

[Kim Bahr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative and engaging

[SaraKat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story of JFK's war-time exploits. I honestly hadn't heard this story before and it was very stressful to read about. The book has a short intro to how he entered the service and some epilogue information for after the war, but the meat of the book is WWII-based. The narrative is gripping and goes quickly since there is a lot of little side-bars and insets with extra information about the boats and terminology and maps and such. I love how the book focuses on the way the two countries made up after the war and kept things positive. I do believe it made JFK look pretty perfect, though. There might have been some careful editing there. :)

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this because my dad mentioned reading a book about this story when he was a teenager, and how much he admired JFK. I'm glad I read this short history book, even though it's the YA version (easily digestible) - I never knew about JFK's experience in the navy during WWII.

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recommended by my daughter who thought it was great. She was right. An amazing story well told and I learned something new.

[Stephanie Bange · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-documented, exciting passages detail the World War II experience of a young Jack Kennedy, from his first siting of a PT (patrol torpedo) boat to the catastrophic collision and heroism in rescuing of most of his crew as skipper of PT 109 to his return to action as skipper on PT 59 and the ship’s hand in rescuing fifty marines outnumbered by Japanese troops and fighting for their lives on the island of Choiseul. It is amazing how so many of his life experiences helped him through this time of crisis. The final chapters provide an overview of his reconciliation with the Japanese after the war, how his military experience helped him to win the Presidency, and more about Robert Ballard’s discovery of the wreck of PT 109 in 2002.

Martin’s does an excellent job of fleshing out this time period of Kennedy’s life for young readers. They will come away with a better understanding of why he was admired by his crew and peers. The book almost reads like a novel in that Kennedy comes across as a bit too perfect, with few/no character flaws. Generous use of illustrations of people mentioned in the text, maps of the region (some unseen), and side bars of quotes from eyewitnesses and “WW II Faces & Trivia” (that sheds light on topics discussed in the text) provide excellent primary source experiences. Other touches that propel this into excellence are the inclusion of quotes that set the tone for both book sections and chapters, a chart of naval ranks used during WW II, a glossary of naval terms, paragraphs of what happened to major players in this story after the war, locations of PT boats (there is one in Port Clinton, OH), a short bibliography of books about Kennedy (some adult titles, some for middle graders), a list of Martin’s resources, two films on the topic of PT 109, and an index.

Recommended for grades 5-8.

[Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book* · Rating 3 out of 5]

In Harm’s Way: JFK, World War II, and the Heroic Rescue of PT 109 by Iain Martin, 219 pages. Scholastic Press (Scholastic Inc.), 2018. $17.99

Language: PG (4 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS – OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

World War II (WWII) was a difficult time for everyone involved, but it also allowed people to fight for what they believed in and to discover who they wanted to be. John F. Kennedy was one such man. In this book, readers get to learn about WWII by following the life of Kennedy – by seeing the war from the path that a real person chose instead of by reading overviews of the events of the war.

Martin helped history come to life for me by following what happened to Kennedy and those with him. Throughout the book, Martin helps explain terms and context for what was going on and why certain choices were made. I have gained more respect for those who act upon the draw of patriotism and a desire to serve one’s country, and I admire Kennedy’s determination to make and goals while never giving up on what he wants despite the obstacles put in his path.

Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...

[Kadie Hayward Mullins · Rating 3 out of 5]

@kidlitexchange #partner

There’s not a book about any of the Kennedys I’m not willing to read and In Harm’s Way: JFK, World War II, and the Heroic Rescue of PT 109 is no exception. It often feels like there are no new stories to be told, or read, about the Kennedy family but Martin provides even the biggest of Kennedy fans new insights into captivating situations, sharing a side of JFK many have not known before. More than just the details of the war, we learn of the way these experiences informed his life as President. Though written for young readers, this won’t feel overly simplified or boring for others. Prolific use of visuals helps to make sense of more complicated narratives.

I was relieved to hear other reviewers also found the portrayal of Kennedy to be a bit too perfect, my biggest complaint about the book. Overall, I would recommend this book for grades 4 – 8 and for any others looking to learn a little more about one of America’s most written about Presidents.

Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for a review copy of this book! All opinions are my own.

[Connor King · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Harm’s Way is the legendary story of future president John F. Kennedy during his service in WWII. He and his crew of the PT 109 survived a devastating encounter with a Japanese battleship, only to be left marooned in the middle of the ocean, deep into enemy territory, and now it’s up to them to make it back in one piece. This is an epic retelling of that fateful night, riddled with suspense and dread, especially during the halfway point of the book. My favorite part about this book is that it perfectly captures the horrors of war in a realistic way like when the PT 109 is destroyed, but it didn’t make too dark or melodramatic to deter me from reading the rest. I personally give this book 5 stars for being an awesome thriller that the reader can’t help but get sucked into, and it’s a must read for anyone who is a huge fan of history, especially about WWII.

[Carol Albert · Rating 4 out of 5]

JFK, President Kennedy, was a WWII hero. This is the story of how he saved his crew after his boat was attacked in the South Pacific. The first problem was that everybody assumed the boat sank with no survivors, so nobody was looking for them. Kennedy, the commander of the PT-109, got his crew, some seriously injured, to an island, first of all. They weren't sure which side had control of the island. That was a problem. From that island, he made trips out and back, mostly swimming, to find someone to rescue them. The whole time, he had a pretty serious back injury himself. The book has a lot of photographs. There is one that shows a close up of Kennedy shortly after being rescued. It is obvious that he is in poor health in the picture. There is plenty of extra, helpful information as well. I saw the old PT 109 movie when I was young. This is more detailed information, sans the dramatic embellishment.

[Rick · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I listened to this book, I thought to myself that the only things I learned about President Kennedy in school centered around his assassination. My mother taught me about his heroism in WWII. This is an accessible biography centered around JFK's navy service, appropriate for younger readers. I'm definitely interested in learning more and the author suggested other resources. Dan Bittner was an excellent narrator.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Didn't want to miss a word. I loved the photos and added information. It helped me remember and learn anew. It made me miss JFK all over again. What a loss our country suffered. What a wonderful read to celebrate Veteran's Day.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good overview of the life of JF Kennedy. His service in the Navy did set the stage for his political career. Would be a good addition to a school library.

[G P Devine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Donovan's iconic book, PT-109, set the standard for the retelling of this amazing true story of war bravery. Iain Martin's new young adult history is a great modern follow up. More information is added, with clean maps and illustrations that help the reader envision what the crew's survival was really like. Donovan's book, the basis the 1963 movie of the same title of his book, served its purpose. This book is the thorough documentry for the history chaser reader.

[Mattingly C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Made me like JFK a little bit more. Still don't really like him though.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great retelling of JFK and PT 109, and his rise to the presidency for upper elementary students who may not know the story. Good overview to begin further reading and research into John Kennedy.

[Valerie McEnroe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love nonfiction books about World War II and survival. This one is informative and tells a little known story about JFK before he became president. In the midst of tragedy, his leadership skills took over and he gave his fellow crewmen the words they needed to remain hopeful. I'm not sure this story will have the same impact with kids unless they are already big readers of everything to do with WWII or JFK.

Kennedy grew up sailing off the coast of Cape Cod, so it's no surprise that he wanted to join the Navy during WWII. He specifically wanted a position on a PT boat because commanding one only required the lowest officer ranking. He desperately wanted to be in charge. He was stationed in the Solomon Islands, a massive group of islands close to Australia where both America and Japan had bases. During a night-time raid, Kennedy's small PT boat collided with a massive Japanese destroyer in Japanese territory. Their boat was destroyed, two men died, and several men suffered burn injuries. With Kennedy's leadership they survived for a week with little food and water until two native scouts rescued them.

The surprising part to me is that there was never a rescue mission. Navy officers assumed the crew had all died and a rescue mission behind enemy lines was risky anyway. It's also interesting that Kennedy and the two native men who found him never forgot one another and always hoped to meet again. They were impressed and shocked to learn the man they rescued had become the president of the United States.

It's a fairly easy read with lots of pictures and maps.

[Lincoln · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book about JFK before his presidency.

[Noah T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Martin Iain’s upcoming novel, In Harm’s Way, takes place in the Solomon islands during the early stages of World War II. The raging water, tropical thunderstorms, and unprecedented heat of the summer days drive the crew of Pt 109 into deep suffering motivating them to get up and try to find help quickly. Some can argue that the novel shares two themes. Man vs nature for the crew endures much physical punishment from the seas around them and man vs self because the crew must fight the temptation of calling it quits and push to survive another day. A young Jack Kennedy and his crew aboard PT 109 were stranded behind enemy lines after a devastating attack by a Japanese Destroyer. Jack, the Captain and future president, naturally takes up leadership and helps his men reach Plum Pudding island in which several more attempts are made to get rescued by patrolling PT boats. You’ll have to read the novel to reach the ending of this much anticipated book.
I would rate the fast paced novel five out of five stars for it is written in a way that keeps the reader on their feet wanting more and more. I also have a huge interest in the Kennedy story and this fulfills my needs. I would recommend the novel for fans of history, presidents, and books about world war II, but encourage all fellow classmates to read the marvelous novel. To use the popular phrase, “This is a must read.”

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book that every American should read. I love the way it was written with all the bits and pieces of info tucked within the story.

[Carolina Colleene · Rating 3 out of 5]

Language: PG (4 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG
World War II (WWII) was a difficult time for everyone involved, but it also allowed people to fight for what they believed in and to discover who they wanted to be. John F. Kennedy was one such man. In this book, readers get to learn about WWII by following the life of Kennedy – by seeing the war from the path that a real person chose instead of by reading overviews of the events of the war.

Martin helped history come to life for me by following what happened to Kennedy and those with him. Throughout the book, Martin helps explain terms and context for what was going on and why certain choices were made. I have gained more respect for those who act upon the draw of patriotism and a desire to serve one’s country, and I admire Kennedy’s determination to make and goals while never giving up on what he wants despite the obstacles put in his path.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/

[Jeremiah Fabbro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book it was so good they need to make a part 2 because I thought about how JFK went into battle.

[Nolan V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

pretty good

[AJBooks241 · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting true story of John F. Kennedy's heroism. A great read.

[Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

if you like biogerfy of john f Kenedy and his experience in the war I would read this book if you like war and action I would read it .

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read like a novel. Loved the small trivia bits that went along with the story. Author really got the reader to know JFK and who he was as a leader.

[Glenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Harm's Way; a rough ride through war.

Book Review by Kaiden Bennett


In Harm’s way, by Iain Martin, is a really great book and I can’t describe how good it is, it’s just too good. In Harms Way is an amazing book by a person who knows their history. The tone of this book is mysterious.

The story takes place during World War II, which was the day that John F. Kennedy joined the military to serve for the country. John decided to join the Marines because he used to race in boats with his brother, and John was assigned to drive a PT boat that went 1,350 horsepower. On December 7th, 1941, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor which did a lot of damage to the aircraft and ships. A few weeks later, the U.S.A declared war on Japan and John F. Kennedy went to Japan to fight. After years of fighting overseas against the Japanese, the U.S. bombed 2 cities which were Hiroshima, and Nagasaki. The bombings led Japan to surrender, and free all the countries that the Japanese captured.

In my opinion this book is really interesting. It really gets you into the history of these types of wars and John F. Kennedy. The story about John is really fascinating, and the stuff he has done is really awesome. As I read this book it has gotten me so excited about what happens next. I can read this book over and over and not get bored. If you like presidents and history, I would definitely recommend this book.

This book is really amazing, and it is definitely one of those books that get you interested. Sometimes when you’re reading a book, it usually gets boring, but this book is absolutely NOT one of those books. So overall, I'd recommend this book to history lovers.

[Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solomon Islands
I knew JFK got assassinated, but I didn’t realize he was a WW2 Hero!
His daddy was rich and tried to use that money to make sure he stayed in a paperwork job far away from combat — but JFK would have none of that!
He went right into the heat of battle and saved so many lives! Are you hungry? He’ll bring you food (including ice cream!). Are you injured? He’ll drag you to safety! Are you injured and want to give up, lay down, and die? JFK said: “Only the good die young — you’re going to live a long life!”
Yooo!! This guy!!! Love it!

[Al · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding, a must read for adults and children alike.

[Shauna Yusko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, but format doesn’t translate well to audio.