This is a gripping and moving first novel by one of the world's best-loved writers for children. In extraordinary circumstances, people are capable of extraordinary things...It is 1944 and Florence 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? This is a beautifully jacketed edition. It has 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 Shirley Hughes; a modern classic in the making.