Double Cross: Deception Techniques in War
Binding: Hardcover
Imprint: Candlewick Press
Age 10+
Armed Forces, Battles, Warfare
How does deception factor into fighting wars, and is it effective? In an intriguing companion to The Dark Game, Paul B. Janeczko reveals the truth about the strategic lies of war.
The biblical account of Gideon. The ancient story of the Trojan horse. Deceptive techniques have been used in war through the ages. But while the principles have changed very little, the technology behind fooling the enemy has evolved dramatically. Paul B. Janeczko’s fascinating chronology focuses on the American Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf Wars to reveal evolving attitudes toward the use and effectiveness of deceptive operations. Find out the secret plan behind the invasion of Normandy and the details of General Schwarzkopf’s “Hail Mary play” during the Gulf War, among many other strategies and maneuvers designed to pull the wool over enemies' eyes. Back matter includes source notes, a bibliography, and an index.
Creators
Paul B. Janeczko is a writer of poetry and nonfiction as well as a noted anthologist. His award-winning poetry anthologies include A Poke in the I, A Kick in the Head, A Foot in the Mouth, Firefly July, and The Death of the Hat. He is the author of Worlds Afire, Requiem, Top Secret, and The Dark Game. He lives in Maine.
Reviews
For kids who enjoy reading about war, this is catnip.
Booklist
The intent here…is to offer fascinating case studies in the way deceptive strategy augments (or even supplants) fire power, and Janeczko carries the day.
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
A top selection for those serious about military studies.
School Library Journal
Featured/recommended in a list of “2017 NONFICTION FOR YA AND MIDDLE GRADE READERS”
Stacked Books (blog)
