Deborah Hopkinson's 'Dive! World War II Stories of Sailors & Submarines in the Pacific' offers a compelling historical account of the United States' submarine fleet during WWII. After the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, these often-outdated submarines and their courageous crews were instrumental in halting the Japanese invasion across the Pacific. The book delves into the strategies, challenges, and heroism of these 'silent service' members, providing a detailed yet accessible narrative for young readers interested in military history and the often-overlooked aspects of World War II. It highlights themes of bravery, resilience, and teamwork in the face of immense danger.
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the US entered World War II in December 1941 with only 44 Naval submarines -- many of them dating from the 1920s. With the Pacific battleship fleet decimated after Pearl Harbor, it was up to the feisty and heroic sailors aboard the US submarines to stop the Japanese invasion across the Pacific.