The reindeer and the submarine by Beverley McWilliams

Where is the least likely place to find a reindeer? A submarine! And yet this is exactly what happened in World War II.

Pollyanna’s early life as a rescued, orphaned and antler-less foundling was in the Russian tundra, but unexpectedly and because of the influence of World War II in Russia, she becomes gifted to the crew of an English submarine set to sail for home just prior to Christmas in 1941.  Pollyanna defies convention in a very military setting and becomes the favourite ‘crew member’, possibly even saving them from attack because of her incredible senses under the surface of the sea. It is hard to imagine how an animal so unlikely to be living on board a submarine amongst the toughest of submariners could win so many hearts. But it happens.

Based on the real-life tale of the reindeer on board the HMS Trident, this is such a charming story that it will be absolutely loved by young readers. Told in the voice of Pollyanna the reindeer, this story reveals the amazing antics and heart of the young animal totally out of her comfort zone. Her desire for food is strong and compelling, but her connection to her human companions is heart-warming, even under combat conditions. In this story truth is stranger than fiction. The idea of a young reindeer being commended for service and loved even though they take up valuable space and oxygen under the sea, becomes an endearing and charming tale ready to be loved by readers far from Russia and England and the difficulties of war-time. And there are dangerous times in war time conflict that must be endured before landing is possible. With small touches of humour spread throughout the book, this is never a sombre war-time story, but instead an uplifting and naive story (with an historical source) ready for young readers.

Themes: Reindeer, World War II, Submarines.

Carolyn Hull