Pancakes - Paris is both set and was written in the 1940s. The story makes several good points, all without being preachy or talking down to children. When Charles does a nice turn for some American soldiers in France, he won't accept monetary compensation for what is basic politeness. The soldiers respect that yet they want to show their gratitude for his kindness so they give him a gift of some food. What Charles does next makes for a heart-warming story of resilience and love. ( )

A sweet little story about a boy in post-WWII Paris, who is given a box of pancake mix by a kindly American soldier, then spends the rest of the story trying to figure out how to make the pancakes (the instructions are in English) in time for Mardi Gras. Borderline saccharine, but still a nice little read. ( )