In 2003 Michael Morpurgo became the third Children's Laureate, a scheme he had originally helped to set up with poet Ted Hughes.

The Laureateship rewards a lifetime contribution to children's literature and highlights the importance of the role of children's books. The story is told largely in the voice of the grandfather and Michael Morpurgo has absolutely nailed the gentle, slow way of talking that many older country men have. But then Auntie Snowdrop gives Michael a medal, followed by a photograph, which begin to reveal a hidden history. As a general guide, the books on this page are suitable for young people aged from about nine years up. It went on several UK tours and was also staged in Australia, Canada, China, Germany, and The Netherlands.Sir Michael Andrew Morpurgo, OBE, FRSL is the author of many books for children, five of which have been made into films.

Gracie and her friend Daniel have always been warned to stay away from the Birdman and his side of the island. Readers will empathise with Antonio, while acquiring an understanding of an important European conflict.These are the most popular ones which are especially great reads for 10-14 year olds and, of course, for reading aloud to younger children. Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative. This is the story of how it got there…When the Bismarck sinks, one of the only German survivors is taken on board a British ship as a prisoner of war.