This entire series is a wonderful way to learn history or teach it to adolescents. I find today's generations seem to recall more when they learn through other people (pop songs, celebrity gossip, etc.), so what better way to teach history than through someone else's perspective? Yes, "authentic" diaries would be "better", but would the language really hold the modern student's attention? Did the diary writer know what WOULD be important in the context of history? Probably not. ( )

I like this book because it is very exciting. Half of the book is about the landing on the beach of Normandy. It is my favourite in the "My Story" series. ( )

Based on facts known about the events of the time, the story follows the fictional character Andy Pope through his experiences in WWII. Andy has just turned eighteen, and after leaving school with good grades, he signs up for the army. Andy’s father had been a soldier in WWI but had not talked about his experiences so Andy had little idea about what he was getting himself in for.
After much training and hard work, Andy does become an officer and then has to get used to having to fill all sorts of roles. Although he is younger than the men he commands, he not only has to oversee his men's training and lead them into battle but he finds that he also has to understand them, taking care of any needs, being aware of any personal problems, and helping them when they are in trouble.
Britain and its allies are preparing to invade France and directly fight against the might of Nazi Germany by the time Andy and his men are ready to serve their country. Andy cannot help feeling anxious when he learns about his assignment. He wonders if he will be able to follow the orders and complete his mission and of the consequences (casualties) of his actions/decisions. ( )