Churchill's S.O.C.K.s: Special Operations Cadet Kids

by Mez Blume

"Mez Blume made me chuckle aloud and shed real tears – all while bringing the human reality of WWII home to me in a new, compelling way. This is a book to which all ages will delight to return again and again!" – R.A. Nelson, Author of The Ancient ★★★★★

"Fantastic ... Enid Blyton and J. K. Rowling will have to watch out." – William Ashby, Information Officer - British Resistance Archive ★★★★★

Mez Blume, author of the celebrated Katie Watson Mysteries in Time series, delivers a new classic for middle grade readers and beyond. The story of the Briscoes – an ordinary British family who face the threat of German Invasion and rise to extraordinary acts of bravery – threads together the stories of real-life wartime families (including children) who joined the secret Special Duties Branch. 

Young readers' hearts will race as they join Ivy Briscoe, Teddy Woodall, and the 'Imps' (together the “Special Operation Cadet Kids”) on their incredible adventures as part of the British Resistance. With characters who jump off the page, this book is as rich with humour and heart as it is with history.

253 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2020

Reviews

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is, this is the story of my childhood dreams. There’s nothing more awesome than being a spy, and this book is full of thrilling adventure, incredible friendship, and a whole lot of character growth. I had to read it in a single day because I just couldn’t put it down. So splendid.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"As Ivy waved to her brother and watched the train grow smaller and smaller until it faded into the unknown, her heart was a muddle of immense pride and intense pain. But, she wouldn't allow the thought of never seeing Ernie again to have even a little space in her head. She would fight off the fear by staying busy and doing her bit.
I will be brave, Ernie, she silently promised."

While touring a new city and walking through their local indie bookstore, I spotted this book on a shelf with a shelf-talker attached from one of the book buyer's. I literally read what was printed on the bookmark and immediately placed in my basket as it sounded right up my alley, and it was! But, sadly, I have not seen a whole lot of this book anywhere since and I absolutely adored it! Perfect for fans of "The War that Saved my Life" or "A Place to Hang the Moon", this is an inspiring story of some displaced British children who become dangerously involved in the war effort in the countryside of Britain following Nazi invasion of France. These children, just on the cusp of young adulthood, are brave, determined, wise beyond their years, and have full understanding of what they might incur if found out, but their desire to serve far outweighs those thoughts that linger.
This was fast-paced with plenty of emotional depth, full of adventure and antics, and had themes of friendship, found family, loyalty, and duty.
I cannot wait to read more from Mez Blume! 4.75-5 shining stars to Churchill's S.O.C.KS! An absolute delight!

[Virginia Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stupendous book!

[Elizabeth Johan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to read this again! Something of this book reminded me of what I loved about Wrinkle in Time— You can’t help but fall in love with the characters.
What a fun read.