Customer Reviews

Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot

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4 star:		(1)
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As a children's librarian I have spent the past week reading Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot to my students. We have enjoyed every minute of it. Margot Raven brings Col. Halvorsen's story to an audience that is not familiar with the Berlin airlift. The book provides background and inspiration while recreating a moment in history. Have your chocolate close by when you read this one.

"Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot: A True Story of the Berlin "Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot": This is a true Story of the Berlin Airlift and the Candy That Dropped from the Sky by Margot Theis Raven, Gijsbert Van Frankenhuyzen" demonstrates the true meaning of the human sprit and the impact of that sprit upon generation after generation. While I was reading this story I was reminded of a saying which emphasizes how truly important our roles, as adults, are in the lives of children, ...but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child." This true story is truly remarkable and a must to share with adults and children.

This true story of hope, kindness and heroism is a reminder that there are American soldiers who have provided a variety of rescues for people in other countries, a reminder that every child is important, a reminder that one caring person can change the world. It also provides a bit of insight into the effect on innocent people when two countries have been at war. The illustrations are as beautiful, sweet, and historically accurate as the text. This heart-warming story gives children a true living American hero to emulate in the Chocolate Pilot and a child to relate to in Mercedes, all while teaching history. By the way, grown-ups love this book as much as children do - when I gave it to my nephew, the grandparents couldn't put it down!

We had the pleasure of meeting the legendary Col. Halverson and Mercedes during one of his visits to Berlin this year. We invited the beloved Chocolate Pilot to speak to a small group of American Scouts and organized a book reading beforehand. Word got out and over 350 people showed up to hear this story! The audience was mesmerized. Everyone, both parents and children alike, were touched by the story of human kindness. Margot Theis Raven does a wonderful job recounting the true story of Mercedes, a seven year old German girl, who dreams of receiving a little happiness, in the form of candy, in postwar Berlin and of a kind American pilot who makes her dream come true. This beautifully illustrated book honors both Col. Halverson and Mercedes. My children absolutely love this book. And so do I! It's a true family keepsake.
Vanessa Hansen, BSA Troop 46 'Freedom Outpost'

A lovely story of a little-known episode in post-World War II Europe, the Berlin Airlift, and the American pilot who knew that for children, chocolates and sweets were almost more important than the basic supplies the Airlift was providing the citizens of West Berlin, so he sent those along with the rest of his cargo, and in doing so, gave them hope.

Margot Theis Raven movingly depicts an important time in history and the gallantry and heart of the man who `rained down sweets' on a city that needed it. A wonderful read with fascinating historical information that kids and adults will enjoy.

Bravo, Ms. Raven!

Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot is a true story from WWII. The prologue and epilogue include historical and personal notes that will be of interest to the reader. Set in Berlin in 1948 this book will educate children and teach them how simple actions can impact others. It is an enjoyable read. More information on a related book and website can be found within.

Some years ago, I "dragged" my wife and son to meet the Candy Bomber when he came through town. He gave a really nice speech in which he told the story of Mercedes. Amazingly, I had finally found a pilot who hit a sweet note with them. A year or two later, they even went to meet him again, and my son caught candy he dropped at the airport. Well, when the book came out, my wife latched onto it in an instant. She was so taken with the book and the retelling of the story of Mercedes, that she has incorporated it into her class room. Super nice man and touching story. The author did a splendid job that does both justice. You'll enjoy this one!

This is the most beautiful childrens' book! It is a true story, I have been very fortunate to meet this pilot, Gail Halvorsen. This is a wonderful way for children to read about an important piece of history that had a lasting impact on not only a city but the millions of people saved by a great act of kindness. This particular event should not be lost, but kept alive. I highly recommend this book to children of all ages! Beautifully illustrated!

We loved this book. We read it last year while studying about Germany. We loved it so much we bought it ourselves. Beautiful true story about how even in the hardships of war, blessing happen. The kids and I even cried a little as we read this one. Just a great read with great illustrations as well.

This is a true story about a American pilot named Col. Gail S. Halvorson USAF and a little German girl named Mercedes Wild.

World War II has ended and the four allies, Russia, Great Britain, France and the United States all controlled parts of Berlin. Russia controlled East Berlin, while the three remaining countries controlled the three sectors of West Berlin. On June 24th, 1948 Stalin tried to take over control of all of Berlin, thereby creating a blockade of West Berlin by cutting off all routes to the city. The Allies did not want to start World War three and so they created a sky bridge and flew supplies day and night into West Berlin, known as The Berlin Airlift.

Mercedes is seven years old and lives in a bombed out section of West Berlin. Airplanes continuously roared overhead and her chickens were so scared they wouldn't lay the eggs her family desperately needed. The planes rained down supplies, like flour, clothing, coal and candy. One day, Mercedes mother read a story in the newspaper of the American pilot, Lt. Gail Halvorson who parachuted candy to the children of Berlin. He earned the nickname The Chocolate Pilot and people from all over America donated handkerchiefs for parachutes and candy for the children of Berlin. Mercedes decides to write him a letter.

Lt. Halvorson and the people of America who donated supplies to the Berlin Airlift brought hope to the people of Berlin. Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot is a beautiful work of art and a testament to the kindness and civility of people after World War II. President Truman said on that fateful day on June 24th, 1948 "There is no discussion. We stay in Berlin. Period." The Berlin Airlift lasted from June 26, 1948 to September 30, 1949.

I never knew this piece of history until I read this story and I am so glad I did. Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot was very moving and inspirational. It is a true story about the kindness of others that we all hope will be extended to us in our time of need. You need to buy some candy, read this book together with your family and enjoy this sweet and delicious story. Children's books are not just for kids.