Vlad and the First World War: A flea in history

During the First World War carrier pigeons were essential for communicating at a time when telephones were unreliable. This is the tale of one pigeon and his essential role in saving lives. Vlad the flea narrates the story of his adventures with Crisp VC the carrier pigeon. The action is set on 25th March 1918 as they return from occupied Belgium with a secret message for the allies. Vlad explains how Crisp VC received his name from the Skipper of an armed smack in the North Sea, who died after engaging a German u-boat. During their flight to Britain Vlad and Crisp VC become caught up in a dog fight with the Red Baron, Fly over Second Lietenant Walter Tull in his trench, and land in a field hospital where Dr Phoebe Chapple tends to Crisp's injury. Finally Vlad and Crisp VC fly over the Indian Cavalry and cross the channel back to Britain to deliver their message.

This account of their adventure is based on historically accurate information with a map, glossary and fact file included to explain the context. As a fully illustrated picture book the story is accessible to primary school children, but also celebrates a range of important people and emphasises the diversity of nationalities embroiled in the conflict. As a text it gives young children the opportunity to discuss who is remembered, how they are commemorated and if we could do more to celebrate the achievements of heroes who broke boundaries in the course of difficult and dangerous times.