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Innocent Heroes: Stories of Animals in the First World War
A unique celebration of the important role animals play in war, and an insightful look at the taking of Vimy Ridge from the perspective of 3 men in a Canadian platoon.
Never before have the stories of animal war heroes been collected in such a special way. This book consists of eight connected fictional stories about a Canadian platoon in WW1. The Storming Normans have help from some very memorable animals: we meet a dog who warns soldiers in the trench of a gas attack, a donkey whose stubbornness saves the day, a cat who saves soldiers from rat bites, and many more. Each story is followed by nonfiction sections that tell the true story of these animals from around the world and of the Canadian soldiers who took Vimy Ridge. Through the friendship that grows between three of these soldiers in particular, we get a close-up look at life in the trenches, the taking of Vimy Ridge, the bonds between soldiers and their animals and what it meant to be Canadian in WW1.
Never before have the stories of animal war heroes been collected in such a special way. This book consists of eight connected fictional stories about a Canadian platoon in WW1. The Storming Normans have help from some very memorable animals: we meet a dog who warns soldiers in the trench of a gas attack, a donkey whose stubbornness saves the day, a cat who saves soldiers from rat bites, and many more. Each story is followed by nonfiction sections that tell the true story of these animals from around the world and of the Canadian soldiers who took Vimy Ridge. Through the friendship that grows between three of these soldiers in particular, we get a close-up look at life in the trenches, the taking of Vimy Ridge, the bonds between soldiers and their animals and what it meant to be Canadian in WW1.
208 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2020
5 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Sigmund Brouwer
260 books407 followersSigmund loves going to schools to get kids excited about reading, reaching roughly 80,000 students a year through his Rock&Roll Literacy Show.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 26, 2017
The animals who serve with the soldiers of a Canadian platoon on the Western Front are introduced in stories through the perspectives of three soldiers, one of whom is First Nations. Readers are introduced to a dog who warns soldiers of a gas attack, a mule whose stubbornness saves the day, a cat who clears the trench of rats, a pigeon who delivers important messages, and more. Each story is followed by nonfiction sections that tell the true story of these animals from around the world and of the Canadian soldiers who took Vimy Ridge. A effective look at the horrors of trench warfare and the warm bond between animals and humans.
February 13, 2017
Cleverly weaving between fact and fiction in >Innocent Heroes: Animals in War and the Battle of Vimy Ridge, we get an 'up-close' view of both the tragedies and accomplishments of war and the bonds cemented between both animals and soldiers and soldiers and their fellow mates. Truly amazing in its telling about the contribution animals make, we see that all kinds of creatures, pigeons, cats, dogs, horses, and mules assist men and are loyal, without question.
Bolstered by true facts, the fictionalized part of the book relates the bond of friendship cemented between Charlie, Jake, and Thomas, who each come from totally different walks-of-life. But, as soldiers, they are one and are there for one another through thick and thin, near-death and life.
A wonderful accompaniment to WWI non-fiction, as well as a glimpse into Canadian contributions to the war effort. It includes acknowledgements, sources, bibliography, photo credits, website resources, and an index.
Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers, Sigmund Brouwer, and Tundra Books for this copy.
Bolstered by true facts, the fictionalized part of the book relates the bond of friendship cemented between Charlie, Jake, and Thomas, who each come from totally different walks-of-life. But, as soldiers, they are one and are there for one another through thick and thin, near-death and life.
A wonderful accompaniment to WWI non-fiction, as well as a glimpse into Canadian contributions to the war effort. It includes acknowledgements, sources, bibliography, photo credits, website resources, and an index.
Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers, Sigmund Brouwer, and Tundra Books for this copy.
February 13, 2017
I completed the book Innocent Heroes: Stories of Animals in the First World War today. This was a collection of fictional short stories based on actual events that occurred during World War I.
During the First World War animals were used extensively to serve troops and fulfill missions in various ways. Throughout the book, the stories involved the same individuals but each chapter involved a different animal as the main character. Then at the conclusion of each story, there were a few pages discussing how that story's particular animal was used in the war. Sometimes the names of the actual animal were even provided.
I found this book to be very readable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the short stories. Although fictional, the stories enlightened me on how necessary animals were in World War I because we didn’t have the technology available then that we have today. Technology has largely replaced the need for using animals to help us fight wars.
This book is good for practically any age from middle school to adult.
I received a copy from the Early Reviewers program on Librarything.com. Book is reviewed by guest M.G.).
During the First World War animals were used extensively to serve troops and fulfill missions in various ways. Throughout the book, the stories involved the same individuals but each chapter involved a different animal as the main character. Then at the conclusion of each story, there were a few pages discussing how that story's particular animal was used in the war. Sometimes the names of the actual animal were even provided.
I found this book to be very readable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the short stories. Although fictional, the stories enlightened me on how necessary animals were in World War I because we didn’t have the technology available then that we have today. Technology has largely replaced the need for using animals to help us fight wars.
This book is good for practically any age from middle school to adult.
I received a copy from the Early Reviewers program on Librarything.com. Book is reviewed by guest M.G.).
July 8, 2017
This book, intended for pre-teens, was actually a very enjoyable read (for this adult). Despite the obvious feel-good narrative of the book it does a good job of exploring the war-time experience of animals during the First World War. I found myself a big fan of the friendship *coughbromancecough* between Jake and Thomas and was even rooting for the often dislikable Charlie in the end.
I also appreciated the end chapter notes that explained the inspirations behind each chapter's story.
In addition, I also think it was very good of the author to shine a light on Native American soldiers in the war. Even now, they are still heavily underappreciated.
I also appreciated the end chapter notes that explained the inspirations behind each chapter's story.
In addition, I also think it was very good of the author to shine a light on Native American soldiers in the war. Even now, they are still heavily underappreciated.
November 16, 2016
This book introduces children to the many types of animals who served during WWI. Each section includes a fictional story about Canadian troops followed by a short history of the real animals who inspired the chapter.
June 10, 2024
I almost didn't read this once I got it because it was listed as middle grade fiction and that's not what I expected, but I'm so glad I did.
This is such a great resource for middle grades. If it's in your J Fiction section at the library, do not discount it! The book follows a fictional group of Canadian soldiers through World War I and highlights their interactions with different animals, including pack horses, messenger pigeons, and trench cats. Although it's a war setting, NONE OF THE ANIMALS PROFILED DIE. At the end of each chapter, which focuses on one fictional animal, there is a section about the real animals that the fictional ones are based off of that also includes pictures. While the book is about animals, there is also a lot of information about the war that is perfectly suited to middle grade readers.
I've studied WWI a lot because I had to teach about it and it is one of my great interests, but I learned a lot from this book. I really enjoyed that it looked at the war from a Canadian lens and talked about Canadian efforts in the war. One of the main fictional characters is First Nations Cree, and the epilogue has both a fictional account and the real information behind the treatment of First Nations soldiers from Canada who served in the war but were not considered citizens. One thing I like best about this chapter is that the author specifically uses examples of First Nations Canadians working for change and profiles one such man.
This is a fantastic resource and, as a teacher, I highly recommend it. It might especially be good for students who like animals and like fiction but don't yet have an interest in history.
This is such a great resource for middle grades. If it's in your J Fiction section at the library, do not discount it! The book follows a fictional group of Canadian soldiers through World War I and highlights their interactions with different animals, including pack horses, messenger pigeons, and trench cats. Although it's a war setting, NONE OF THE ANIMALS PROFILED DIE. At the end of each chapter, which focuses on one fictional animal, there is a section about the real animals that the fictional ones are based off of that also includes pictures. While the book is about animals, there is also a lot of information about the war that is perfectly suited to middle grade readers.
I've studied WWI a lot because I had to teach about it and it is one of my great interests, but I learned a lot from this book. I really enjoyed that it looked at the war from a Canadian lens and talked about Canadian efforts in the war. One of the main fictional characters is First Nations Cree, and the epilogue has both a fictional account and the real information behind the treatment of First Nations soldiers from Canada who served in the war but were not considered citizens. One thing I like best about this chapter is that the author specifically uses examples of First Nations Canadians working for change and profiles one such man.
This is a fantastic resource and, as a teacher, I highly recommend it. It might especially be good for students who like animals and like fiction but don't yet have an interest in history.
June 19, 2017
This is the review I wrote for the Manhattan Book Review: War was quite different in the days of WWI. Allied soldiers spent miserable days and nights in cold, muddy trenches waiting for the many horrors the German army would throw at them. Besides the usual shelling and attacks with bayoneted rifles, the Germans used deadly gas that caused any caught in it to die horrible deaths. Radio communication was unreliable. Consequently, the men sometimes had to rely on animals — carrier pigeons, cats, specially-trained dogs of various breeds, and horses and mules. Several of these animals saved many lives and acted in truly heroic ways, even when badly injured. Some were even awarded medals for their brave acts. This book is historical fiction, following three fictional Canadian soldiers through the build-up to a great battle. Each chapter tells a bit of their story and how a heroic animal impacted what they experienced. Each fictional chapter is followed by a good write-up of a real heroic animal and its story. These include some grainy photographs. Excellent back-matter gives even more information. The writing is fine and the stories captivating. This will be a great introduction to WWI for the middle-grade set and others. Don’t miss this one.
September 21, 2018
Featured in "Historical Nonfiction for Young Readers" on Intellectual Recreation.
Thousands of animals played a crucial role in World War I. Sigmund W. Brouwer's book explores the contributions of these creatures. Each chapter begins with a fiction story about an animal who crosses paths with the Storming Normans, a fictional Canadian Platoon. After the story, a nonfiction section provides facts about World War I and the animals who were involved in the war.
The format of this book was a really engaging way to learn history. The stories are all interconnected and feature the same characters, one of whom is First Nation, which gives readers a look into the prejudices and injustices faced by native peoples during this period of history. The nonfiction sections explain how the facts inspired the story. Readers meet a variety of animals, a cat, two dogs, a mule, a pigeon, a horse, all of whom play a crucial role in the Storming Normans' platoon.
Review copy from NetGalley.
March 23, 2017
This is the second book I have read by author Sigmund Brouwer, each one very different from the other. I was fascinated by the use of true stories in telling the stories of animal "soldiers" in WWI, especially in the fight for Vimy Ridge. With the Canadian army stuck in the trenches and their working animals so thoroughly trained and alert to serve at a moments' notice in any capacity, all were prepared to do what was needed regardless of what the commanders of the allies wanted done. I wasn't sure what to expect but as a proud Canadian who was the young daughter of a soldier in WWII, and interested in history, I learned a lot more about what that meant.
Each short story features a fictional version of a factual animal story. Told as fiction perhaps brings more focus on the close bond between human soldier and animal. I enjoyed reading these double stories, the fictional perhaps setting us up for a more in-depth look at events as they were. Following each is the "real" story the fictional animal was based on. I'm impressed by the vividness of the faith each has in the other "partner". I definitely would recommend this book for almost every age, even perhaps used in schools around Remembrance or Armistice Day. How proud we should be of these faithful animal assistants in war and of their handlers. What was accomplished by these two factors working together and the way the Canadians respected their orders in battle was both fascinating and amazing.
Each short story features a fictional version of a factual animal story. Told as fiction perhaps brings more focus on the close bond between human soldier and animal. I enjoyed reading these double stories, the fictional perhaps setting us up for a more in-depth look at events as they were. Following each is the "real" story the fictional animal was based on. I'm impressed by the vividness of the faith each has in the other "partner". I definitely would recommend this book for almost every age, even perhaps used in schools around Remembrance or Armistice Day. How proud we should be of these faithful animal assistants in war and of their handlers. What was accomplished by these two factors working together and the way the Canadians respected their orders in battle was both fascinating and amazing.
September 27, 2019
What superpower would you like to have? 🐱🐶🐺🐦🐎
This book tells the story of a Canadian Platoon during World War I. What makes this an actual interesting book is that the stars aren't the hoomans but their furry and feathery companions.
Each chapter is a short story about a fictional situation but it ends with the true story of the animal that inspired it. Showing that being a heroe is something cats, horses, pigeons, mules and dogs can accomplish.
This book caught my eye while visiting my local Library because of its subject matter: Animals as heroes in the real world! Still, I hate war in all its forms and even more so that animals are brought in to battle hooman's conflict.
This book tells the story of a Canadian Platoon during World War I. What makes this an actual interesting book is that the stars aren't the hoomans but their furry and feathery companions.
Each chapter is a short story about a fictional situation but it ends with the true story of the animal that inspired it. Showing that being a heroe is something cats, horses, pigeons, mules and dogs can accomplish.
This book caught my eye while visiting my local Library because of its subject matter: Animals as heroes in the real world! Still, I hate war in all its forms and even more so that animals are brought in to battle hooman's conflict.
May 20, 2017
Short stories featuring animals used in service during WWI. Fictional stories are followed up with real-life accounts of the same animals during WWI. A backstory through all the stories deals with First Nations of Canada; attitudes toward those in service during the war and their treatment as civilians.
June 19, 2017
Sad that humans drag innocent animals into their wars... Still an excellent read as teachers and professors, never mention the use of our companions as war animals. The various animals deserve to be remembered.
May 18, 2017
Cool to read some WWI stories from a Canadian perspective. And awesome animals just makes it better.
April 3, 2024
Perfect for middle schoolers who love animals. Got it for my 12 yr old grandson for his birthday. He happens to be studying WWI
November 11, 2019
I was expecting a case by case collection of real life animal heroes, and while there are some such stories in the between-chapter facts,
Innocent Heroes
is written from the point of view of three Canadian men in a fictional platoon who are seeing these contributions first hand as they move to take Vimy Ridge. The men face down enemy soldiers and their own fears, and gain valuable character development that shapes who they’ll be in the post-war epilogue.
The stories cover everything from carrier pigeons to horses, and everything in between, from keeping the trenches free of rats to warning of attacks to fetching reinforcements. it also covers the Canadian attack on Vimy Ridge in an exciting and fascinating way. I'd known it was important before but Holy Christie that chapter was exhilarating.
CHARACTERS:
The men experienced a surprising amount of character development in such a short book, but I suppose a war does put maturity on a fast track. I found I liked them and that’s the best you can ask for. The post-war epilogue was particularly enjoyable when the friends come together again for a different kind of battle.
SETTING/WORLD BUILDING:
The setting was described well and felt genuine. Nothing specific was used, but nothing jolted you out of the story either. It was exactly what the book called for.
PLOT/SOLUTION:
The plot was simple - men trying to survive a war long enough to return home - and was used only to tell the animal stories. But it tied the stories together in a believable way and their situation was an interesting, realistic one. It didn’t have to be complicated; it was only serving as an attractive framework.
OTHER ASPECTS:
-
The epilogue was dedicated to the Native American contribution, since one of the characters was Cree and returned home to the same corrupt government control he’d left, this time as a veteran. But while it was well-written and the comeuppance was enjoyable, it was a little uncomfortable to see a chapter on Native Americans in a book on animals.
THE VERDICT?
An impressive compilation of stories tied neatly together to illustrate a greater whole. I can easily see this as a recommendation for Remembrance Day reading.
The stories cover everything from carrier pigeons to horses, and everything in between, from keeping the trenches free of rats to warning of attacks to fetching reinforcements. it also covers the Canadian attack on Vimy Ridge in an exciting and fascinating way. I'd known it was important before but Holy Christie that chapter was exhilarating.
CHARACTERS:
The men experienced a surprising amount of character development in such a short book, but I suppose a war does put maturity on a fast track. I found I liked them and that’s the best you can ask for. The post-war epilogue was particularly enjoyable when the friends come together again for a different kind of battle.
SETTING/WORLD BUILDING:
The setting was described well and felt genuine. Nothing specific was used, but nothing jolted you out of the story either. It was exactly what the book called for.
PLOT/SOLUTION:
The plot was simple - men trying to survive a war long enough to return home - and was used only to tell the animal stories. But it tied the stories together in a believable way and their situation was an interesting, realistic one. It didn’t have to be complicated; it was only serving as an attractive framework.
OTHER ASPECTS:
-The epilogue was dedicated to the Native American contribution, since one of the characters was Cree and returned home to the same corrupt government control he’d left, this time as a veteran. But while it was well-written and the comeuppance was enjoyable, it was a little uncomfortable to see a chapter on Native Americans in a book on animals.
THE VERDICT?
An impressive compilation of stories tied neatly together to illustrate a greater whole. I can easily see this as a recommendation for Remembrance Day reading.
March 5, 2017
Eight animal stories are brought to life in fiction and followed up by the inspirational facts on the battle of Vimy Ridge, and the amazing creatures that became unsuspecting heroes. A must have for school libraries and a great addition for readers nine to adult to inspire and remember.
December 9, 2017
This review is also available on my blog, Read Till Dawn.
This was an interesting blend of fiction and truth, interspersing a made-up, animal-centric storyline about men in a Canadian platoon during WWI with real facts about the animals featured in the different chapters.
On one hand, I really loved learning about all those different animals from WWI–and the Canadian platoon they were with, since I barely even knew before now that Canada participated in WWI! But then at times I felt like the way it was done, switching between chapters of fictional stories and then nonfictional explanations, made the narrative feel really disjointed. I kept forgetting who the various people were for quite a long time because I didn't read about them for so long in between chapters.
Also, and I suppose this is just an interesting cultural perspective, there is a lot of emphasis put on the supposed superiority of Canadian military tactics (basically, the generals see their soldiers as equals and give them room to interpret assignments as they wish) over the much more top-down American and British structures. While it does sound like the Canadian system is the one I would like to be in, I really don't know enough about military tactics to know which is ideal; I do, however, know from reading the book that Brouwer is definitely heavily in favor of Canada. And it's actually really interesting to read about WWI and military tactics from such a different angle than I usually do. I mean, let's be honest, there's really not much material out there about the Canadian perspective on most of the big wars.
Basically, it's a good book with a lot of interesting details that gets bogged down at times by the alternating format it's written in. I still liked it, though, and I suspect a lot of other people–especially kids with a passion for army history–will too, If you read it, please be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments section down below!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from a LibraryThing Early Reviewer giveaway.
This was an interesting blend of fiction and truth, interspersing a made-up, animal-centric storyline about men in a Canadian platoon during WWI with real facts about the animals featured in the different chapters.
On one hand, I really loved learning about all those different animals from WWI–and the Canadian platoon they were with, since I barely even knew before now that Canada participated in WWI! But then at times I felt like the way it was done, switching between chapters of fictional stories and then nonfictional explanations, made the narrative feel really disjointed. I kept forgetting who the various people were for quite a long time because I didn't read about them for so long in between chapters.
Also, and I suppose this is just an interesting cultural perspective, there is a lot of emphasis put on the supposed superiority of Canadian military tactics (basically, the generals see their soldiers as equals and give them room to interpret assignments as they wish) over the much more top-down American and British structures. While it does sound like the Canadian system is the one I would like to be in, I really don't know enough about military tactics to know which is ideal; I do, however, know from reading the book that Brouwer is definitely heavily in favor of Canada. And it's actually really interesting to read about WWI and military tactics from such a different angle than I usually do. I mean, let's be honest, there's really not much material out there about the Canadian perspective on most of the big wars.
Basically, it's a good book with a lot of interesting details that gets bogged down at times by the alternating format it's written in. I still liked it, though, and I suspect a lot of other people–especially kids with a passion for army history–will too, If you read it, please be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments section down below!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from a LibraryThing Early Reviewer giveaway.
February 16, 2017
Innocent Heroes (Stories of Animals in the First World War) by Sigmund Brouwer is an upper elementary/ middle school book. It is exactly as the name implies with no surprises except the animals are much more varied then I expected. I found this quite interesting since the animals are not just the commonly written about dogs and horses. The first story is a pigeon, what a wonderful astonishing way to begin this book. It certainly hooked me.
The stories are told in a clear forthright way so that it is easy to understand the actions and feelings of those involved toward the animals. Then there is a segment on the animals that the story is based on and how they were honored by the Royal Canadian Army as well as other countries. It is an all-around excellent book that show the help and comfort that animals have given.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
The stories are told in a clear forthright way so that it is easy to understand the actions and feelings of those involved toward the animals. Then there is a segment on the animals that the story is based on and how they were honored by the Royal Canadian Army as well as other countries. It is an all-around excellent book that show the help and comfort that animals have given.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
February 7, 2017
I received a hardcover copy compliments of LibraryThing's Early Reviewer's giveaway and appreciated the opportunity.
This fictional story shares the importance and resilience of the animal heroes that supported Canadian soldiers in WWI. Each chapter focuses on the challenges, triumphs and realities of what both soldier and animal endured. The author is well-researched and the novel serves as an educational tool for all readers. Alongside the animal heroes who faced unthinkable circumstance and conditions, a parallel story of the many Indigenous Canadians who selflessly gave of themselves to protect a nation that did not recognise them as citizens until decades later. The story highlights themes of brotherhood, loyalty and sacrifice. Throughout the novel there are photos that add to the experience, WWI was real and the animals that fought alongside soldiers were true heroes, deserving of recognition and honour.
This novel is written for an adolescent audience, however, I recommend that it is most educational for teens and adults alike. It is respectful of both the human and animal sacrifice that allowed for our freedoms today.
This fictional story shares the importance and resilience of the animal heroes that supported Canadian soldiers in WWI. Each chapter focuses on the challenges, triumphs and realities of what both soldier and animal endured. The author is well-researched and the novel serves as an educational tool for all readers. Alongside the animal heroes who faced unthinkable circumstance and conditions, a parallel story of the many Indigenous Canadians who selflessly gave of themselves to protect a nation that did not recognise them as citizens until decades later. The story highlights themes of brotherhood, loyalty and sacrifice. Throughout the novel there are photos that add to the experience, WWI was real and the animals that fought alongside soldiers were true heroes, deserving of recognition and honour.
This novel is written for an adolescent audience, however, I recommend that it is most educational for teens and adults alike. It is respectful of both the human and animal sacrifice that allowed for our freedoms today.
August 4, 2018
Oh, hate that animals are used in human wars... Bad enough they get in the way of our weapons without us forcing them into service to be massacred. Anyway, I think everyone should have to read these stories; they should be taught in history classes and classrooms. Maybe it would teach some empathy and compassion for fellow creatures. Brave animals all. Medals weren't , and aren't enough. Good read.
January 13, 2022
My eldest (10) and I very much enjoyed this read. I like how Brouwer included a short section at the end of each chapter about what inspired the animal in the chapter. I loved reading about true historical parts, and the fictional story was well written. I think adding the epilogue was a great addition; showing how the natives were treated during that time I think is a very important part of the history. I think we'll be looking into other books by Brouwer now. 3.5 stars
March 30, 2017
Received a free copy from Librarything.com's earlyreviewers group February batch in exchange for a fair review.
Loved it. Part fiction part nonfiction. Tells the story of mainly three Canadian soldiers in world war one leading up to the battle of Vimy Ridge. A chapter of story is presented and then a chapter of nearly equal length covers history related to the subject of the fictional chapter. Animals covered are pigeons, cats, dogs, mules, horses and even a lion. Full of intriguing history and a good story. I am thankful to have won this book through librarything's earlyreviewer group. I am already recommending it for purchase to my coworker in the youth department of our library.
Loved it. Part fiction part nonfiction. Tells the story of mainly three Canadian soldiers in world war one leading up to the battle of Vimy Ridge. A chapter of story is presented and then a chapter of nearly equal length covers history related to the subject of the fictional chapter. Animals covered are pigeons, cats, dogs, mules, horses and even a lion. Full of intriguing history and a good story. I am thankful to have won this book through librarything's earlyreviewer group. I am already recommending it for purchase to my coworker in the youth department of our library.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews