Candy Bomber, Michael O. Tunnell
Candy Bomber, Michael O. Tunnell
List: $8.99 | Sale: $6.30
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Candy Bomber
The Story of the Berlin Airlift's "Chocolate Pilot"

Author: Michael O. Tunnell

Narrator: David de Vries

Unabridged: 1 hr 5 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Tantor Media

Published: 05/06/2025


Synopsis

One WWII pilot's mission to lift the spirits of children living in war-torn Berlin in 1945 comes to life in this moving middle-grade historical account. After World War II the United States and Britain airlifted food and supplies into Russian-blockaded West Berlin. US Air Force Lieutenant Gail S. Halvorsen knew the children of the city were suffering. To bring a bit of hope, he began dropping chocolate and chewing gum by parachute.

What began as a one-time gesture of compassion turned into an official US Air Force operation. "Operation Little Vittles" grew, as more and more pilots volunteered to drop the parachutes, and donations of candy and cloth poured in from all over. This inspiring story of one man's contribution to the rebuilding of a country after war is a unique look at history.

Candy Bomber is an important and interesting addition to studies of World War II.

Reviews

Goodreads review by Josiah on June 02, 2023

When one thinks of the top kids' historical nonfiction authors from the first two decades of the twenty-first century, Michael O. Tunnell doesn't come right to mind. There's Russell Freedman, Newbery Medalist and recipient of multiple Newbery Honor citations, who set the gold standard of his era for......more

Goodreads review by Becky on April 03, 2012

As far as historical non-fiction is concerned, this was one of my all-time favorite reads. The mix of pictures, primary documents, and written background were a perfect mix to make this is quick read, but an informational and inspiring read. Honestly, this story really touched me, and although I alr......more

Goodreads review by Jim on August 02, 2013

In the author's note, Tunnell explains that he originally wanted to write this story as a children's picture book, but someone had beaten him to it. Gail Halvorsen himself also had written an adult book including his own experiences and pictures. So, what Tunnell was left with was a book for kids in......more

Goodreads review by Cara on April 21, 2015

Gail Halvorsen was helping with airlifting supplies in Berlin after WWII. While touring the area, he saw children watching the airplanes. He was touched and offered them what he had with him, two pieces of gum. They were overjoyed to receive that little treat and Lt. Halvorsen knew he had to do some......more

Goodreads review by Deacon Tom on December 07, 2019

Amazing book about a subject that I knew nothing. It makes me proud of what the WWII Alies did to restore Germany after the war. And this individual who has been decorated by many countries is a saint in my estimation.......more