
Written & illustrated by Patricia Polacco
A young soldier's wartime friendship leads to a life-changing reunion.
In the midst of World War II, fifteen-year-old Tucky Jo, the youngest soldier in the Pacific, finds solace in an unexpected friendship with a little girl in the Philippines. Despite language barriers, they connect through acts of kindness, sharing rations and hope. Years later, their bond is tested and renewed when a long-forgotten favor is returned at a crucial moment. Discover how a simple act of kindness can transcend time and distance in this touching tale based on true events.
Friendship, loyalty, and kindness stand the test of time in this heartwarming World War II-era picture book based on a true story from the beloved author-illustrator of Pink and Say and The Keeping Quilt. Tucky Jo was known as the “kid from Kentucky” when he enlisted in the army at age fifteen. Being the youngest recruit in the Pacific during World War II was tough. But he finds a friend in a little girl who helps him soothe his bug bites, and he gets to know her family and gives them some of his rations. Although the little girl doesn’t speak English, Tucky Jo and Little Heart share the language of kindness. Many years later, Tucky Jo and Little Heart meet again, and an act of kindness is returned when it’s needed the most in this touching picture book based on a true story.
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