Friend Or Foe

What do our readers think of Friend Or Foe? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children often find the story gripping, moving and full of interesting choices about friendship, courage and doing the right thing. Some children feel that the book is very short and that the ending moves too quickly.

What does the Pageticker team say about Friend Or Foe?

Friend or Foe is a thoughtful, gripping wartime story that puts friendship and courage under a very uncomfortable spotlight. Michael Morpurgo keeps the writing clear and accessible while giving young readers plenty to debate, although the bombing, loss and moral tension may suit confident readers aged around 9 and up best.

Genres

What is Friend Or Foe about?

During World War II, best friends David and Tucky are evacuated from London to the Devon countryside. Their peaceful new life is disrupted when they witness a German bomber crash nearby. Discovering two surviving airmen hiding on the moor, the boys face a moral dilemma: should they report the enemy soldiers or help them? Their decision challenges their understanding of friendship, loyalty, and the true nature of war.

About the author

Michael Morpurgo is a much-loved British author who has written over a hundred books for children. He is best known for his story 'War Horse', which was made into a play and a film. Michael often writes about animals and adventures, inspiring children to imagine exciting worlds and discover the magic of stories.

Discussion ideas around Friend Or Foe

Friendship under pressure: How do David and Tucky’s friendship and different personalities affect the choices they make?

Enemy or human being?: What changes the boys’ view of the German airmen, and can someone be both an enemy soldier and an ordinary person?

Doing right: When what is expected clashes with what feels right, how should a person decide what to do?

Life as an evacuee: What might have been exciting, frightening or difficult about leaving London and living with strangers in Devon?

War and labels: How does the story show the danger of judging a whole group of people by the actions of some of them?