Shadow of the Zeppelin

Set around Woolwich, in Flanders and in Germany, Ashley's latest powerful novel for KS3+ readers shows World War One from the viewpoint of British and German combatants, but concentrates on the little-known Home Front experience. Freddie's father's work at the Arsenal provides ammunition for the Front, but German Zeppelin raids transform their family life forever. Based on actual events, the sense of place and individual experience is very real, and readers must confront the eternal questions of conflict, the insoluble dilemma of the ordinary soldier.

As Zeppelin crew, Ernst is no less concerned for his German family than Freddie for his, yet Ernst's actions will directly bereave both families. In both young people must mature swiftly trying to survive.