Good Reading for Kids’ roving reporter, Catherine, recently read and reviewed Spies in the Sky by Beverley McWilliams. She asked the author about pigeons and which parts of the story were true.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Sometimes we must do things we don’t want to, even if they frighten us.
Royal Blue is a royal racing pigeon from a long line of champions. Every morning he wakes in his comfortable loft at Sandringham House, eats the very best seeds and spends the day training with his best friend to be the fastest and strongest pigeon in Britain.
But there’s a war going on, and things are changing. Then one day the King himself comes to the loft and chooses Blue for a very special assignment.
As Blue goes on missions, helping with rescues, carrying secret messages and facing dangers he never could have imagined, one thing will become clear: never underestimate a pigeon.
MEET OUR ROVING REPORTER
MEET OUR ROVING REPORTERCatherine is in Year 4 at Birchgrove Public School, Birchgrove NSW. She likes to play with her dog, Peggy, do Ju Jitsu and sing in her school’s choir. Her favourite colour is blue and her favourite food is sushi.
Read Catherine’s book review of Spies in the Sky
MEET BEVERLEY MCWILLIAMS
What inspired you to write a story from the perspective of the pigeon?
My first novel, The Reindeer and the Submarine, was written from the point of view of a reindeer. I found that writing from an animal’s perspective was a great way to address the difficult topic of war for young readers without being too confronting, as well as promoting empathy for the animals involved. For my second novel, I was keen to write another book from an animal’s point of view and I chose a pigeon. I have always loved pigeons and the remarkable tale of their service in war is a story everyone should know. I hoped that allowing a pigeon to tell their story would spark young readers’ interest in this fascinating piece of history as well as inspiring respect for these often underestimated birds.
What parts of your story were true?
I tried to keep my story as close to the truth as possible. Blue, Mary, Commando and Billy were real birds who received medals for their service in World War Two. Although it is unlikely that they worked together their personal stories were all true, and I used the information I had on each bird to develop their personalities.
The historical background to the book is factual. Details regarding the NPS, the Secret Pigeon Service, the work of Coastal Command, Bircham Newton airbase and the Exeter bombings are all based on real accounts. The section of the book set in France uses fictional characters, but it is a reflection of what life would’ve been like for those living under occupied rule.
Who is your favourite character in the book and why?
That’s a difficult question as I like the different traits of all the characters, but my favourite is probably Blue. From the beginning you can see he is kind, but he is so self-absorbed that he comes across arrogant and sometimes unpleasant. By the end of the story he has learned so much about himself and the world which has changed his whole outlook on life and the caring and thoughtful Blue shines through.
It’s great to hear readers’ different favourites. I also admire little Billy for his bravery and humour. I love how Commando is so tough on the outside, yet soft deep down. I am also especially fond of Mary. She has such a positive attitude in the face of all adversity just like the real Mary who was truly a miracle bird.
Visit Beverley McWilliams’ website
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