D-Day: Untold Stories of the Normandy Landings by Michael Noble is a fabulous history book for children ages about eight to ten. Told through the stories of diverse participants such as Major-General Percy Hobart, an engineering wizard, Stanley Hollis VC, awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery during the fighting, Waverly Bernard Woodson, Jr., a brave African-American medic, and journalist Martha Gellhorn, the only woman among the invasion force, the book provides a personal and up-close view of this critical World War II turning point.

Each spread in the book contains an historical photograph and a box with a brief first person “autobiography” against a beautiful full-page illustration highlighting the action. Every time I look at the book, I see a new detail! Easy to follow and engaging text explains the theme of the spread, paratroopers and their role in the invasion, or the importance of journalists, for example. Finally, the page updates the reader on the person’s life after the war.

The personal stories are arranged in such a way that they seamlessly tell the story of D-Day from early planning to right after the invasion. Noble includes many different roles, from generals to weather forecasters to front line soldiers and medics. Additionally, he has made an effort to include women and people of color as well as individuals fighting for the Germans.

The text is not sensational or overly graphic, but given the subject matter, does discuss injuries and death. While the most challenging word for readers of this age might be “emplacements,” there is a two-page glossary with this and other terms with which kids may be unfamiliar.

For children in this age range who are interested in history, D-Day is an absolute must. It is also a very valuable addition to any school or public library. Once more, did I say how much I loved Alexander Mostov’s illustrations?

Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group / Wide Eyed Editions for an advance reading copy in exchange for an honest review.