Danger in the Darkest Hour

Gr 2–5—The drama and danger of World War II is conveyed via clear, simple storytelling in the first Magic Treehouse Super Edition. Jack and Annie have been sent back to England in 1944 and soon find themselves parachuting into Normandy, France, behind enemy lines. Osborne handily brings her beloved characters to life, alternating between nervous Jack and his seemingly bolder sister. She capably voices a cast of others, including adults and youngsters, realistically and believably. Though her very young children come off a bit squeaky, she still maintains a childlike quality. This is billed as a super edition because it includes Jack and Annie's adventure and a glossary of terms and events that were important to World War II. Osborne explains D-Day, partisans, the Holocaust, and much more in a slow, measured voice so even young listeners can follow along.