Old Bert the Bomber is the 3rd book in the “Adventures of Arnold A. Airplane” series. Old Bert is an old, sad and lonely World War II bomber plane that Herman happened to see when passing by an old deserted airport. Since it is too windy for Arnold and Herman to fly, they decide to spend the day at the old airport just down the lane to see if the old airplane that Herman saw earlier is still there. It doesn't sound very exciting to Arnold but since they have nothing else to do and can't fly due to the weather they decide to go. When they arrive Old Bert is being teased and abused by some younger planes. Arnold and Herman feel sorry for him and, after the young planes have gone, ask if there is anything they can do to help. Old Bert asks them if they can just stay and talk for a while and Herman thinks why not, we have nothing else to do. Old Bert tells them great stories of his youth and the war, with lessons on respecting our flag and the people who defend our country and those who have given their lives to protect our liberty. They find it is not only interesting but also great fun to listen to Old Bert. Since he is now a new friend and is far too important to stay alone and sad. They invite him home for dinner. The morals presented in this story include respecting our country and our flag, remembering and respecting those in our armed forces and their families and treating older people with respect and honor. Like the other two books in this series, it is written in rhyming prose and should be easy for children to understand. The illustrations are simple drawings with bright colors that should enhance a child’s imagination and, possibly, spark their interest in flying. The photographs (credits) at the end of the book include actual photographs of models Arnold, Herman, Billy and Old Bert built by the author.
So they went back to the lane, jumping up and down
(of course not Old Bert, he was staying on the ground).
His old tires were flat, so he wobbled when he rolled
and his old wings were weak, so they jiggled as he strolled.
(of course not Old Bert, he was staying on the ground).
His old tires were flat, so he wobbled when he rolled
and his old wings were weak, so they jiggled as he strolled.
Review
On a day too windy to fly Arnold and Herman witness other young planes being disrespectful and mean to an old, neglected bomber named “Old Bert”. Arnold and Herman befriend the saddened plane and spend their day listening to “Old Bert” tell of his exploits and adventures as a seasoned war plane. The young planes are swept up into “Old Bert’s” tales bursting with courage, honor and loyalty. Then spiral downward in turn as he tearfully recounts times of suffering and loss.
Arnold and Herman discover how treasured time spent with elderly people can be; that they should not be looked over but listened to and valued for their rich heritage and wealth of knowledge.
Added Bonus:
Braided into this story is a beautiful patriotic theme reminding us that our freedom was purchased at great cost.
As a mother, grandmother and Kindergarten teacher, I am delighted to recommend this book to all who value quality in the written word. Mr. Slentz is a wonderful, conscientious story teller with an incredible gift for verse! My students have loved the previous two books and will treasure this third book with equal enthusiasm.
Kim Jung
Kindergarten Teacher
Logos Christian Academy
Arnold and Herman discover how treasured time spent with elderly people can be; that they should not be looked over but listened to and valued for their rich heritage and wealth of knowledge.
Added Bonus:
Braided into this story is a beautiful patriotic theme reminding us that our freedom was purchased at great cost.
As a mother, grandmother and Kindergarten teacher, I am delighted to recommend this book to all who value quality in the written word. Mr. Slentz is a wonderful, conscientious story teller with an incredible gift for verse! My students have loved the previous two books and will treasure this third book with equal enthusiasm.
Kim Jung
Kindergarten Teacher
Logos Christian Academy