Growing Up in World War II: 1941 To 1945

by Judith Pinkerton Josephson

Recounts the experiences of a typical childhood during World War II, including work, play, and educational activities, and identifies the struggles felt with regard to the war.

Genres: World War II, Nonfiction, History

64 pages, Library Binding

First published October 1, 2002

About the author

In my writing career, I have published numerous magazine, newspaper, and journal articles and over twenty books spanning varied genres—including biographies, childhood history books, and picture books for children; two zany grammar guides for folks needing a refresher; and a historical fiction novel. I write books and stories for children and some for adults. I’ve written biographies on diverse people, such as track and field legend Jesse Owens, detective Allan Pinkerton, poet Nikki Giovanni, musician Louis Armstrong, composer Ludwig van Beethoven, and labor activist Mother Jones. One of the things I love about writing biographies is the chance to shine a spotlight on fascinating people. Sometimes they are more interesting than anyone I could invent. Especially interesting to me are those who overcome challenges and provide positive role models for children. In my books on childhood history (the Our America series), I explored what children were doing during various eras in history—using children’s diaries, memoirs, photographs, songs, games, and more. As a co-author with Edith Fine, we wrote two humorous grammar guides and a picture book, Armando and the Blue Tarp School, nominated for the 2009-2010 California Young Reader medal and chosen for One Book San Diego. When I am not scrutinizing words, I enjoy writing poetry, playing my violin, reading, swimming, snorkeling, walking, and spending time with my family. For more about me, visit www.judithjosephson.com, www.grammarpatrol.com, and www.bluetarpschool.com

Reviews

[Duane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great resource for any age reader who wants to learn all the different lifestyles that people endured during WW2. Done through the eyes of different kids, you get to experience War life as a Japanese American struggling in a internment camp, a Hawaiian child in fear of another attack, a midwestern boy who wants the action to come his way and many other kids. Filled with great pictures and a easy-to-understand writing style, this is a great addition to anyone's collection.

[Shelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice additional resource for students when covering World War II or life in America in the 1940s. Containing several photographs, first person quotes/descriptions, and images of actual (now) relics of the time. While informative, the book lacked good “flow,” feeling a bit jumbled on topics in sections.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

Would be good as supplemental material for a middle school social studies lesson on World War II. The book contains a good variety of topics and examples of homelife in the U.S. during the war.