The Secret of Midway

November 1, 2014

Gr 4-8-When Anderson searches the basement of his uncle's junk shop, he hopes to find a practice space for his band. Instead, he discovers a trunk containing a U.S. Navy peacoat from World War II, with a mysterious letter inside. Later that night, he is visited by the ghost of the jacket's owner-a young sailor who cannot remember what happened to him during the war. Together with his bandmates, Greg and Julie, Anderson races against the clock to search for answers before the ghost vanishes for good. Watkins does a fine job of weaving realistic and historical fiction elements with a good old-fashioned ghost story. The book devotes equal time to the central mystery and establishment of the main characters, their families, band, and shared nemesis. War, and the long-lasting impact for those who survive, is discussed in an age-appropriate manner, without glorifying the details or condemning either side. The pacing of the ghost's story is slow and sustained, with much of the history being provided through longer soliloquies after one of the trio conducts solo research (a bonus for teachers and librarians recommending the series to students).-Nicole Signoretta Sutton, Kingston Elementary School, Cherry Hill, NJ

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2014
Grades 3-6 When Anderson takes a U.S. Navy peacoat from a trunk in his uncle's junk shop, he goes home with more than he bargained for. With his mind on school and starting a band, the last thing Anderson expects to find is the ghost of a young naval officer in his room, coat in hand. Unable to recall his name or what happened to him, the ghost asks Anderson to help him remember his past and why he has come back. Though the WWII-era coat and a letter in its pocket are his only clues, Anderson, a serious history buff, can't turn down the challenge. He and his bandmates enthusiastically delve into their research as they attempt to unravel the mystery. The supernatural and sleuthing story components make for a lively history lesson and should foster an interesting discussion around the Battle of Midway, as well as aspects of war frequently forgotten with time. Elementary-school readers with an interest in history will enjoy the spirited account of WWII, the first volume in the Ghosts of War series.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)