Archie is ten years old when his Uncle Colin gives him his scrapbook. Shortly afterward, World War I erupts and Archie uses it to reflect on news from the front. The fictional narrator also includes his own illustrations and reproductions of postcards, letters, flyers, and more. Through Archie’s scrapbook, readers get a glimpse of the impact of the war on British families, from enduring air raids and food shortages to anxiously awaiting letters from soldiers at the front. The endpapers echo the scrapbook theme. Included is a short glossary of terms. Bank Street College Best Children’s Book of the Year, Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People. nlh

Originally published by Walker Books Great Britain, in 2007.

In 1914, just before the outbreak of the First World War, 13-year-old Archie is sent a scrapbook in the post from his Uncle Colin. In the years that follow, until the war ends in 1918, we experience life through Archie's eyes and learn about his world and family.