A collection of moving stories from the First and Second World War published in association with the Imperial War Museum. These twenty-two stories recount some of the most heroic, devastating and pivotal moments of the World Wars providing young readers with an insight into the human stories behind the conflicts.

"A truly moving collection of tales. From spies and secret plots to snipers and zeppelin raids, it brings history alive with real heroes." - tbk Magazine


Spies

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 May 2015
Ten short stories of real-life spies which are as exciting and engaging as any work of fiction. Contains tales of stealth and deception every bit as daring and glamorous as the fictional escapades of James Bond, but far more deadly, as the real life spies risk capture, torture and execution for their trade.

Heroes

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 January 2008
Thirteen thrilling true stories of amazing courage and heroism. From firefighters battling a blazing nuclear reactor, to a helicopter rescue team on board a fast sinking ship and one housewife's brave defiance of the Gestapo, this book contains inspiring tales of extraordinary courage from everyday people. A gripping and engaging collection of amazing real life stories, perfect for readers who prefer fact to fiction.

Escape

by Paul Dowswell

Published 27 July 2007
Locked doors, high prison walls and barbed wire are formidable enough obstacles, but many escaping prisoners also face savage dogs and armed guards who shoot to kill. From Alcatraz to Devil's Island, this book tells the extraordinary tales of men who risked their lives for their freedom.

Heroes

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 May 2015
Thirteen short stories of real-life courage and heroism. From firefighters battling a blazing nuclear reactor, to a helicopter rescue team on board a fast sinking ship and one housewife's brave defiance of the Gestapo, this book contains inspiring tales of extraordinary courage from everyday people.

True Everest Adventures

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 June 2004
This title includes four new editions in the popular "True Stories" series, each with an arresting new cover. Each book contains thrilling stories of heroism, bravery and battling the odds to provide young readers with a truly compelling read. It contains maps, line drawings and notes on sources and further reading. It is perfect for fact-fans and reluctant readers: a must-have series during the 2008 Year of Reading.

War Stories

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 November 2011
This title recounts some of the most famous tales of intrigue, heroism and adventure of the First and Second World Wars, providing young readers with an insight into the human stories behind both conflicts. It includes stories that range from the dramatic deeds of soldiers, sailors and airmen on the front line to the rivetting tales of spies and codebreakers. Each story is illustrated with photographs from the time, as well as maps and black and white illustrations. It is produced in association with the Imperial War Museum.

True Stories of Heroes

by Paul Dowswell

Published 30 November 2001
This volume contains stories about the men and women whose extraordinary courage has captured the imagination of millions. From spies to test pilots, doctors to explorers, it recounts their spirit, integrity or resolve in detail.

Recounting the stories of some of the most heroic, devastating and pivotal moments of World War II, this book gives young readers a strong sense of the suffering, but also the bravery involved in the war. It also gives an understanding of the experiences which may have affected their grandparents. From the voyage of the Bismarck and the Battle of Iwo Jima to Cracking Enigma, the story of Violette Szabo, the Manhattan Project and attacks on Japan, this book provies an unpatronizing and approachable insight into this conflict.

True Ghost Stories

by Paul Dowswell and Tony Allan

Published 27 September 2002
About one in ten people claim to have seen a ghost, this title documents 12 separate, spine-chilling accounts. From moonlit spirits in an English vicarage to the Bell Witch phantom of Tennessee, USA, the events are described as they were reported at the time.

Polar

by Paul Dowswell

Published 30 November 2007
This title brings together the thrilling and remarkable stories of the most noted early explorers of the North and South Poles.

Ghosts

by Paul Dowswell and Tony Allan

Published 1 June 2008
Is there really such a thing as a true ghost story? The strange tales in this book are all based on actual reports by people who believed they had been haunted by ghosts or poltergeists. Stories are illustrated with maps and diagrams. Gripping and engaging for readers who prefer real life to fiction.

Survival

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 September 2015

Polar Adventures

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 September 2015
A collection of true stories of exploration over the icy wastelands of the North and South Poles, including the fated expedition of Captain Scott of the Antartic and Ernest Shackleton's epic trek across the snow to save his crew. Stories are illustrated with maps and drawings, and readers can find out more online via Usborne Quicklinks.

Everest Adventures

by Paul Dowswell

Published 1 September 2015
A collection of real-life stories: extreme cold, perilous danger and daring exploration, including several stories of tragedy the mountain's slopes. Includes maps, a glossary of mountaineering words; further resources - including photos, video clips and a virtual climb of Mount Everest - are available via Usborne Quicklinks.