Brothers in Arms: A True World War II Story of Wojtek the Bear and the Soldiers Who Loved Him, written by Susan Hood and illustrated by Jamie Green. Harper, 2022. $23.99 ages 7 and up

 

"Any time was mealtime for Wojtek. He ate 
army rations, just as the men did. His friends
indulged his sweet tooth, feeding him fruit, 
marmalade, honey, and syrup. When the soldiers
threw oranges in grenade practice, Wotjek cleaned 
up. Takeout from the cookhouse was Wotjek's
favorite fast food."

This true story begins when Irena and her family met a young boy in Persia (today known as Iran). The boy was carrying a bag, and inside was a tiny bear cub. Intrigued by his newness and cuddly demeanor, a soldier bought the bear as a gift for the young girl who had suffered so much during the war. Named Wotjek, this brown bear from Syria finally found his way to the soldiers of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company where he kept their spirits up and helped with the war effort. The orphaned cub found family with many soldiers who had also lost so much during WWII. Wotjek, as one would suspect, loved to eat anything offered to him. The result of all that indulgence was a massive brown bear! 

Making friends was something the bear did easily. Teenage soldiers Henryk and Dymitr became fast friends with their company's mascot. They spent much time together, playing and wrestling. Wotjek also got along well with Kirkuk, a dalmatian member of the company. As he continued to grow, the bear got himself in some sticky situations, including surprising an enemy spy in the shower hut. Scared almost to death, the man was easily captured. 

A further move put him back with Kirkuk and more trouble, most notably a scorpion sting which took the life of Kirkuk. With great care, Wotjek survived. When the soldiers got a new assignment to Italy, they were told the bear would not accompany them. So, they enlisted him. After a prolonged argument, they were given permission to take him with them. By the end of the war, Wotjek was promoted to corporal and went on to spend retirement in the Edinburgh Zoo. 

Digital illustrations showcase the humor and warm nature of Wotjek's personality. Back matter is extensive with archival photos, maps, a timeline, and other items of interest for readers. Despite the fact that the story is framed by an ongoing war, it is a true tale sure to engage readers while teaching them much about adversity, friendship, and the power of love.