Naomi Weisman is the writer of Nomi's Pics and the editor of the Rambler Cafe Blog and Newsletter. She is a Canadian-Australian mother of three who loves to Ramble with her dog, cook for family and friends, and laugh whenever possible.
The Long Flight Home takes readers on an unforgettable journey into a little-known part of World War II history. Blending fact and fiction, Alan Hlad brings to light the courageous role of homing pigeons—and the people who trained them—in Britain’s desperate fight for survival. This is a story of hope, resilience, and unexpected love in the face of war’s uncertainty.
About the Author
Alan Hlad is an American historical fiction writer who specializes in uncovering hidden or overlooked stories from the past. Known for his meticulous research and accessible storytelling, Hlad often blends factual history with compelling fictional characters. The Long Flight Home is his debut novel and quickly captured readers’ imaginations, establishing him as a voice in the genre of wartime historical fiction.
Summary
Set in 1940 as the Battle of Britain rages, the novel introduces Susan Shepherd, a young woman in England who trains homing pigeons for the war effort, and Ollie Evans, an American pilot who volunteers to help despite the U.S. not yet being officially involved. Together, they become part of “Operation Columba,” a British intelligence mission that used pigeons to carry messages across enemy lines. As Susan and Ollie work side by side, they form a deep bond amidst danger, loss, and the ever-present shadow of war. The story is both a tribute to the forgotten heroes—human and animal—and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Themes
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Resilience and Sacrifice: The novel highlights the strength of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.
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Love in Times of War: Susan and Ollie’s relationship is both tender and fragile, shaped by the unpredictability of war.
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Unsung Heroes: The role of pigeons, and those who trained and cared for them, serves as a reminder of the overlooked contributions to the war effort.
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Hope Against Despair: The narrative underscores how hope can endure, even in the darkest of times.
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Fate and Chance: The story explores how small, seemingly insignificant acts can change the course of lives and history.
Questions to Ponder
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Did you know about Operation Columba or the use of pigeons in WWII before reading the book? How did this knowledge change your perspective on the war?
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How does Hlad use the relationship between Susan and Ollie to humanize the larger historical events?
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In what ways does the novel explore the idea of sacrifice—both personal and collective?
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Animals often play symbolic roles in literature. What do the pigeons represent to you in this story?
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How does the mix of fact and fiction affect your reading experience? Does it make you more curious to explore the real history?
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The ending leaves room for interpretation. How did you feel about it, and what do you think it suggests about war, loss, and memory?
Conclusion
The Long Flight Home is more than just a war story—it’s a heartfelt reminder of the resilience of the human (and animal) spirit. With its blend of historical detail and emotional storytelling, it invites readers to reflect on overlooked corners of history while also considering timeless questions of love, sacrifice, and hope.
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