Oberon Plays for Young People Series

A stunning new edition of this modern classic of World War One, featuring a new introduction by the author and insightful testimonies from soldiers, to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

Told in the voice of Private Tommo Peaceful, the story follows twenty-four hours at the front, and captures his memories of his family and his village life – by no means as tranquil as it appeared.

Full of vivid detail and engrossing atmosphere, leading to a dramatic and moving conclusion, Private Peaceful is both a compelling love story and a deeply moving account of the First World War.

Extra material:

- Introduction by Michael Morpurgo
- Inspiration letter by Michael Morpurgo
- Background on the execution of British soldiers in WW1 for cowardice, including personal testimony from soldiers

I Believe In Unicorns

by Michael Morpurgo

Published 1 February 2006

Originally published as a short story in The Sunday Times, this rousing tale is set in a town in eastern Europe. In the local library, a boy becomes captivated by the stories he hears read aloud by the librarian, who sits astride a model unicorn. When war comes, the library is burned, but the children manage to rescue the books. They guard the books throughout the occupation, and when the war ends, they resurrect the library, full of their beloved books.