A gripping and moving novel by one of the world's best-loved writers for children.

From much-loved author Shirley Hughes comes a thrilling World War II novel for children aged 10 and up. It is 1944 and Florence, Italy, is occupied by Nazi German forces. The Italian resistance movement has not given up hope, though – and neither have Paolo and his sister, Constanza. Both are desperate to fight the occupation, but what can two siblings do against a whole army with only a bicycle to help them? In extraordinary circumstances, people are capable of extraordinary things…

"The mounting suspense will keep readers turning pages. An absorbing survival adventure and a solid fiction debut." - Booklist

"a beautifully moving story" - Irish Independent

"A thrilling adventure." - The Good Book's Guide

"Action packed. . . an excellent addition to our World War 2 novels." - Reading Chick

"A thrilling Second World War novel for children by one of the world's best-loved writers." - The Bookseller Children's Buyer's Guide

"Best-selling illustrator Shirley Hughes writes beautifully in this gripping story set during World War Two […] Shirley Hughes captures the thrill of this very important adventure. This beautifully jacketed edition has a linked website with historical details about the Second World War in Italy, including period photographs, videos and music, as well as interviews with the author, extra illustrations and much more. This is a wonderful first novel from the internationally revered writer Shirley Hughes; a modern classic in the making." - Love Reading 4 Kids