Peter in Peril - Helen Bate

A story of hope and courage in World War II.

'It was a cold dark night when Dad buried a box in the garden...' Based on real experience, this vivid graphic novel takes the reader right into the life of a family forced to live in secret when their city is occupied by enemy forces. Narrated by six-year old Peter, it conveys the fears, uncertainties and bewilderment of a child who never thought he or his parents were in any way different from anyone else and abruptly find themselves ostracised, forced out of their home, and at the mercy of armed soldiers. How they avoid being taken away, contrive to stay together, struggle to preserve their own normality and family life, in an city being torn apart by warfare, makes engrossing reading.

• Peter's story is a true one, that of the author's brother-in-law, who was a small boy in Budapest, Hungary, during World War II.
• Graphic novel treatment is ideal for presenting the drama of the children's predicament Important historical story that shows the capacity of a family to cope with persecution and a terrifying change of circumstances and to live through it to better times.

About the author

Helen Bate is an exciting and versatile illustrator, who previously qualified as an architect. Her picture book ABC UK by James Dunn was nominated for the Kate Greenway Medal. Helen is passionate about how good quality design can improve communication and has established Pictures to Share, a social enterprise publishing illustrated books for people with dementia which was the winner of the 2014 People's Book Prize, Best Achievement Award.