War Dog

War Dog – The True Story of Judy, hero of WW2

The true story of one dog’s incredible bravery in WWII Judy is a dog who lives on a ship called HMS Grasshopper.

Tom Palmer (Author)
Carolina Rabei (Illustrator)

Published by Scholastic, 11 September 2025
ISBN 0702325945

As the ship’s mascot, Judy has many duties. She catches rats, watches out for soldiers who may fall overboard, and she listens out for danger. Judy loves her crew, and they love her.

She knows that she brings comfort to the men, making her job very important during these hard times. But when her soldiers are taken prisoner and she is separated from her beloved Frank, she must find the strength to keep going.

She is their only hope.

This beautiful picture book is a testament to the love and loyalty of dogs and the importance of animal companions.

Based on a true story, Tom Palmer’s debut picture book is a tribute to a remarkable hero of WWII – Judy the dog
Judy is magnificently brought to life with Carolina Rabei’s mesmerising illustrations
Learn more about the role of animals who have been involved in conflict with a non-fiction spread at the back of the book
Older readers will delight in Palmer’s other historical fiction books, including D-Day Dog, Over the Line, After the War and Armistice Runner

Literacy Resources (to come)

Dickin medal

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