Really well-written story. It follows a route that we don't often hear about. When we think about the First World War we think of the carnage of the Somme, the heroism of the men who went over the top to certain death, and the incompetence of their leaders. What we don't often hear about is the stories of the men who were killed by their own comrades for supposed cowardice. This is one of those stories.

I read this on school when I was in Y9 and I thought it was amazing

I was recommended this book by a friend and I'm so glad I took her up on the recommendation. The story is told in chapters counting down time until something happens. The Narrator Tommo Peaceful, lets the reader know the whole story will be told.



Tommo reflects on his life from his early childhood, his mother, his late father, his "slow" brother Big Joe and his brother Charlie. Tommo's relationship with Charlie is very touching. Tommo also discusses the love of his life (and his brother's love) Molly. Tommo's memories are innocence, friendship, love and rough times.



As the story moves on, Tommo and Charlie join up to fight in the War. Tommo being under age at only 15. They fight side by side and defend each other, their strong bond as brothers and best friend deepens. Tommo shares his memories and brings the reader closer to what is looming.



As the story nears its end it is heart rending and tragic. Michael Morpugo's writing here is amazing and so tender.

The book is aimed at children and young adults, but can be enjoyed by any adult. It's a short read with a very special message- to never forget those that gave their lives on a daily basis.

Tears. I am in pieces. Everytime I read this, I cry harder. I form more of a bond to the characters, and the writing just tears me apart. Who'd have thought a book about ww1 would be so darn heartbreaking huh? Morpurgo has a way with words, you can feel everything that the characters are feeling. The empathy, the pain, that is felt within reading this book, is unbelievable.

Private Peaceful is one of my favourites, a comfort book for me. I love it so much. Too much to even know where to begin in giving you a proper review, but what I can say is this is a book for everyone! I started this when I was 10, and since then I've read the book a further 7 times through my teenage years, and first couple of adult years. It's good for insight into what soldiers experienced in the war, in a way that tells a story. He's written it so well and the end is a real plot twist.

If I could, I'd give it more than 5 stars.

This book was very sad, and one that can be reread over and over again. It's a part of my heart -- I used to reread this book every month when I was a little pickle. This is the best of Morpurgo's books. I need to reread this book again. I'll update this review when I do.

Nobody ever talks about Private Peaceful but it deserves height. Amazing book. You really fall in love with these characters: Molly, Charlie, Big Joe, Bertha. You also hate some characters: Colonel, Grandma Wolf, The sergeant. It isn't ruined when you reread, you laugh, you cry, you shake with anger and you smile with joy.
A phenomenal book. Best book I've ever read.

Quite a sweet little tale, lulled me into a false sense of security. By the time I realised where it was going it was too late to stop it. Quite an emotional and traumatising ending. Even worse when you realised such things actually happened

I remember crying so much over this book that I threw it across the room in anger. I'd say that I enjoyed it but I don't think it's the right word. But overall it is a brilliantly written book and I would recommend it, bear in mind that I warned you!