Example book reviews

Book reviews of Private Peaceful

Review 1

Private Peaceful, which was published in 2003 and was written by award-winning author Michael
Morpurgo, is a powerful and poignant novel about World War One.

Initially, the novel is set in idyllic and rural England and follows the lives of the Peaceful family. Then,
with the outbreak of World War One, there is a dramatic change in the mood and content of the
novel. 

Most of the story is told in one night by Private Tommo Peaceful, who has joined up with his brother
Charlie. For much of the novel, Tommo reflects on their childhood, especially their time with their
brother Big Joe, who has a learning disability, and their friend Molly. The story takes us up to the
night on which Tommo's telling the story, before something terrible happens, to which Tommo has
been referring and dreading throughout the story, although he doesn't tell us until near the end
what it is. It is quite a climax.

Through the main theme of war, Morpurgo explores more universal themes such as family, jealousy,
bravery and morality. Certainly, Mr Morpurgo knows what he's doing, and so it's no surprise that this
is a well written book. However, I was surprised that he'd produced such a good First World War
novel. He hasn't fallen into any of the usual traps - instead he shows us a group of normal people.
The Germans aren't demons, the British aren't saints, and although the war is ever-present, much of
the narrative concerns events that happened years before it.

This is an excellent book. The story is emotive without needless sentimentality. It is a book for
children and adults alike. It isn't a long book - it doesn't need to be. I'd recommend it without
question.

Review 2
Private Peaceful, which was published in 2003 and was written by award-winning author
Michael Morpurgo, is a very emotive book.
The book is packed full of jealousy, grief, joy and anger. Set just before the start of World War One, it
charters the ruin and devastation rendered by the war, both on and off the battlefield.
The book is about the calm, peaceful and tranquil life of Thomas Peaceful, who is our narrator, and
his life in the countryside. Charlie and Thomas (Tommo) Peaceful grew up together. Charlie being the
oldest is always looking out for his little brother Tommo. He takes any punishment away from
Thomas and brings it upon himself. However, then the war starts and Thomas and his brother
Charlie are forced to go to France to fight. Once there he will experience the most devastating things
like pain, grief and the death of his fellow friends; however he will also find love. The book is
narrated through flashbacks, which maintains intrigue and pace.
The main theme of war is presented in authentic, realistic and thought-provoking manner. Without
being too over dramatic, Morpurgo subtly and thoughtfully considers the implications of war both
on the individual soldiers and civilians back home in England.
This book is very exciting, full of action, and at times a real tear-jerker. Michael Morpurgo really
opened his reader´s eyes to what's going on in the world. In my opinion, this is one of the best books
I´ve ever read. Certainly, it kept me on the edge of my seat, as I hungrily devoured the pages. I am
glad I picked up this book. I give it five stars.