Raid of No Return: Bigger & Badder Edition (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales #7): A World War II Tale of the Doolittle Raid
#7 of 12 in Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales Series
What’s inside...
Told in graphic-novel form, this installment of Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales follows America’s daring Doolittle Raid of April 1942. After Pearl Harbor, sixteen B-25 bombers launch from the aircraft carrier USS Hornet to strike the Japanese mainland—an operation considered impossible. Using a lively framing device starring the hangman, the Provost, and Nathan Hale (the Revolutionary-era spy turned omniscient narrator), the book shows how the volunteer crews trained, how they carried out the raid, and what happened when they crash-landed in China. Blending humor, clear maps, and historically documented dialogue, the book explains the stakes of World War II in the Pacific while spotlighting courage, teamwork, and sacrifice.
Character compass
Lt. Col. James “Jimmy” Doolittle
Hangman
Sgt. Jacob DeShazer
Capt. Ted W. Lawson
1st Lt. Richard “Dick” Cole
The Provost Marshal
Nathan Hale (The Revolutionary-era narrator)
Discussion points
Why did the crews volunteer for such a risky mission?
How did the raid change the course of the Pacific war?
What sacrifices did Chinese civilians make, and why?
Can bravery and humor coexist in tough situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Trace the flight path on a world map together.
Compare the Doolittle Raid to modern examples of teamwork.
Invite children to design a "mission patch" that symbolizes courage.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in uncertainty
Explanation: Pilots launch despite slim chances of safe return.
Real-World Application: Trying new tasks at school even when success isn’t guaranteed.
Example Lesson: Teamwork elevates success
Explanation: Crew coordination on cramped bomber decks was essential.
Real-World Application: Cooperating on group projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Preparation matters
Explanation: Rigorous short-runway training allowed the mission to proceed.
Real-World Application: Studying and practicing before tests or performances.
Example Lesson: Actions have wider impacts
Explanation: The raid lifted U.S. morale but endangered Chinese villages.
Real-World Application: Considering how our choices affect others.
Example Lesson: History is complex
Explanation: Book shows heroes, civilians, and unintended consequences.
Real-World Application: Looking at multiple sides before forming opinions.