Book Club: While the Storm Rages
We’re delighted to bring you a thrilling and emotional adventure set at the start of the Second World War.
Everything you need for your book club
While the Storm Rages
- Written by Phil Earle
- Published by Andersen Press
September 1939. The world is on the brink of war. As his dad marches off to fight, Noah makes him a promise, to keep their beloved family dog safe. When the government advises people to have their pets put down in readiness for the chaos of war, hundreds of thousands of people do as they are told. But not Noah. He’s not that sort of boy. With his two friends in tow, he goes on the run, to save his dog and as many animals as he can. No matter what.
Please note that this story contains content that might be upsetting for some readers – we advise always reading the text before sharing it with your group.
About Phil Earle
Born and raised in the north of England, Phil is the author of over twenty acclaimed, award-winning books for children and teenagers. He has worked as a carer, a drama therapist, a bookseller and a publisher, and loves talking at schools and festivals around the world. He lives on the side of a very steep hill with his partner, their five children and two dogs.
Snack Recipe: wartime carrot cake
After the outbreak of war in September 1939, food became scarce and rationing was introduced in Britain in January 1940. Certain foods such as butter, bacon, and sugar, were restricted which meant people could only buy a limited amount to ensure there was enough to go around.
During the Second World War, sugar was rationed to 8oz (230g) per week and often, carrots where used to naturally sweeten cakes and biscuits. The sweetness of the carrots replaced some of the sugar used in the original recipes. Why not have a go at making your own Wartime carrot cake below:
Ingredients:
- 230g self-raising flour
- 85g margarine or cooking fat
- 85g sugar
- 115g finely grated carrot
- 55g sultanas
- A little milk or water
- 1 reconstituted dried egg or 1 fresh egg
Method:
- Preheat oven to 220˚C / 200˚C (fan) / gas mark 7.
- Sift the flour into a mixing bowl.
- Rub in the margarine or cooking fat.
- Add sugar, carrot, sultanas and egg. Mix well and then add sufficient milk or water to make sticky.
- Pour mixture into a lined baking tin and cook in the over for 40 – 45 minutes or until golden in colour.
More Book Club Choices For Upper Key Stage 2 (9-11 Year Olds)
Book Club Choices For Lower Key Stage 2 (7-9 Year Olds)
Explore
Useful Links
Stay up-to-date
Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to receive news and updates about World Book Day
Sign up to our newsletter
World Book Day Ltd, 6 Bell Yard, London WC2A 2JR. World Book Day® is a charity sponsored by National Book Tokens. Registered charity number 1079257 (England and Wales) | Registered company number 03783095 (UK).
