Our Yanks

Do you think history is dull and dry, found only in school books? Do you view history as a bunch of events and dates, but not about real people? Well, think again! Try reading books like "Our Yanks," and you will soon change your mind. Although this book is fiction, it is based on historical facts and events.

"Our Yanks" tells the story of a group of American airmen who are assigned to develop an airfield near a small village in England during World War II. The narrative takes place after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the event that thrust the United States into the war. Although the "Yanks" were disliked and disparaged at first, the villagers got to know them and welcomed the young men into their homes and hearts.

This book introduces show more readers to several people and families whose lives became entwined with those of the airmen. Agnes, the kindergarten teacher, Sally, the baker's daughter, and Lady Beauchamp, the local gentry, experience love and heartbreak in their relationships with the American men. Elderly Miss Cutteridge finds the "son" she never had, and village boys Tom and Alfie befriend and help the Americans.

Readers will be taken into the heart of England's experience with World War II: the rationing, hardship, and deprivation of daily life, as well as the courage and perseverance engendered by the situations the villagers faced. This book definitely grabs the reader from the outset, and does not let go until the last page is turned. This is a clean read, without graphic descriptions of adult situations or strong language. Learning history becomes enjoyable through books like this one.

I received this book from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own. show less