Cher Ami: Based on the World War I Legend of the Fearless Pigeon

by Mélisande Potter, Giselle Potter (Illustrator)

An inspiring picture book that explores the true story of Cher Ami: a heroic messenger pigeon who saved the lives of soldiers during World War I. 

In October 1918, during World War I, nearly seven hundred American soldiers were trapped behind enemy lines with no prospect of rescue. Allied troops did not have access to their location, and every attempt at communication provoked more casualties. Their only hope—to dispatch a trained messenger pigeon to reach help miles away. 

This unforgettable story celebrates courage and determination in its most vulnerable form. Cher Ami was shot down during her mission yet managed to save many lives, proving her fearless flight was a remarkable one.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, History, Childrens, Animals, Biography, World War I

40 pages, Hardcover

Published May 31, 2022

Reviews

[Becky Loader · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was not familiar with the story of Cher Ami.
Now, I love it.

[Pam Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy animal hero stories, this will delight you.

[Peacegal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a rousing look at Cher Ami, a homing pigeon who carried a message that saved the lives of a troop of American soldiers trapped behind enemy lines during WWI--despite being grievously wounded by gunfire herself.

Cher Ami's story reminds us of the strength and intelligence of a humble animal who gets very little attention or respect from humans, and may help young (and old) readers see pigeons in a whole new light.

The story of animals used in war is a sad one--as they know nothing of the fights of men, yet still display loyalty and courage in doing what is asked of them in terrifying and confusing environments. This book added a bit of fantasy, implying the pigeons knew they had joined the war effort and marched in-line like soldiers, but I realize these sillier touches were probably included to soften Cher Ami's experiences for the young audience.

[John Stanifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

"There, dangling from what was left of her leg, hung the message that would help save 194 soldiers on the battlefield."

In some ways, this is pretty heavy for a kid's book, but it's also an incredibly touching story that just so happens to be based on true events.

(Seriously -- the Smithsonian actually has the 100-year-old taxidermied Cher Ami in its collection! You can see pictures online.)

I love books like this that are based on history. Probably not for the VERY youngest, but it's quite the story for a child that can handle the more serious subject matter.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nonfiction picture book. This book tells the story of Cher Ami, a WWI homing pigeon that saved the lives of 194 soldiers who had mistakenly been fired upon by their own troops. It shows the pigeons at home, going off to training, and ultimately shows Cher Ami in her famous flight. An interesting story to touch upon that time period in history for a younger audience. Illustrations are done in watercolor, with a palette of mostly brown, green, and gray. Back matter includes notes from both the author and illustrator as well as a list of additional resources.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well-told, lightly fictionalized account of Cher Ami, a World War One carrier pigeon. The text and illustrations involve violent and sad details related to warfare, so this is mainly suitable for elementary-aged kids, not for a typical picture book audience.

The notes in the back provide helpful context and clear insight into how the creative team altered their presentation of some details to make this work well as an illustrated story.

[BiblioBrandie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved learning about the history of carrier pigeons in this beautifully illustrated picture books (Giselle Potter is one of my all-time favorites!). This book focuses on one avian hero in particular, Cher Ami, a carrier pigeon that saved many lives during WWI. Also appreciated the extensive list of sources.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

It seems to be a significant flaw that the author’s note doesn’t specify clearly which aspects of the book are fiction v. fact, and it’s confusing that the book refers to Cher Ami as returning to the United States when she wasn’t from the U.S. I would have liked more information about homing pigeons generally. Still, this is a super interesting story.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun historical picture book. Cher Ami is a homing pigeon sent to France during WWI to carry messages from the front. A one point she delivered a message that helped save a group of soldiers stuck and under fire from friendly fire.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

That little peg leg!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and well told. I just wish Giselle Potter’s illustrations of people didn’t always weird me out so much. Hardly a neck in the book…

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good info and back matter

[Syntha Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quite interesting look at how pigeons (one specifically) were used in WWI

[Elisabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The whole family enjoyed this picture book about a carrier pigeon in WWI. The story was informative, but still fun. A good read for animal loving children, and history buffs.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great addition to my WWI book collections/unit of study for school. Recommended.

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A part of history we had no clue about. The boys loved it. I enjoyed learning something new.