On the Wings of Heroes

By: Richard Peck

Narrated by: Lincoln Hoppe

World War II has invaded Davy Bowman's home-front boyhood. There's an air raid drill in the classroom, and being a kid is an endless scrap drive. His brother, Bill, has joined up, breaking their dad's heart. It's an intense, confusing time, and one that will invite Davy to grow up in a hurry.

Still, Richard Peck is a master of comedy, and even in this novel of wartime uncertainty, he infuses his tale with humor: oddballs and rascals and boyhood misadventures alongside the poignant moments. This is one of Richard Peck's very finest novels - a tender, unforgettable portrait of the World War II home front and a family's love.

©2007 Richard Peck (P)2007 Random House Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

Critic reviews

"This book is an absolute delight." (School Library Journal, starred review)

"Chock full of eccentric characters and poignant moments, this coming-of-age novel will be embraced by children and grownups alike." (Publishers Weekly)

"No one does nostalgia better than Peck, and this episodic story of a boy's life on the home front just before and during World War II is a charmer." (Booklist)

Highly recommended

A vivid and moving portrait of life during World War II in a small town

Entertaining

This was a cute story about life during the war. I was intrigued to read about the town's colorful cast of characters, and what measures the boys went to to support the war. This is a kids title, but still quite listenable by adults. I would recommend it.

Our favorite listen yet!

The narrator for this book was perfect. The story is nostalgic, patriotic, engaging and downright funny! We listened on a recent road trip and our children (ages 6-14) would not get out of the car during our many pit stops and bathroom breaks until the chapter we were listening to was over or had a natural pause. As 30-something year old parents, we enjoyed it immensely as well and were giggling right along with the kids. It was difficult for us to stop the audio when the kids would fall asleep at night as we both got caught up in the story. We have struggled to get through audible books in the past, but the narrator to the story On the Wings of Heroes was the perfect combination to keep us listening and wanting to listen again!

Rich Homefront History

What made the experience of listening to On the Wings of Heroes the most enjoyable?

Richard Peck is a masterful storyteller. His "memories" of the tiniest moments are rich with sensual detail. Follow an after dark game of Kick the Can with a dad carrying his small son through the back yards and gardens of the small town and you are there.

What did you like best about this story?

The main character explains what life in a small town was like during World War II with his adored older brother off fighting the war. Every character is beautifully drawn and the boy's inner thoughts reflect the difficulties of the time. I really enjoyed the information about rationing and collecting scrap for the war effort, things I'd heard about but not fully grasped until I heard this book.

Any additional comments?

I've read other books of this type, but this one is head and shoulders above them in the quality of the writing. The narration was mesmerizing--I felt as though I was sitting on the narrator's lap and he was whispering in my ear.

Loved it!

Richard Peck did it again! The voice of Lincoln Hoppe was perfect for the book!

Great for the whole family!

We LOVED this story. I so enjoyed the reader! Lincoln Hoppe takes his time allowing us to relish the read.

Provided a window into life during WW2.

Inspiring picture of rural family life during the war. Helps readers appreciate the hardships of life during those years, not just the rationing of foods and materials.