the war that saved my life
Book Details
An exceptionally moving story of triumph against all odds set during World War 2, from the acclaimed author of Jefferson’s Sons and for fans of Number the Stars.
Ten-year-old Ada has never left her one-room apartment. Her mother is too humiliated by Ada’s twisted foot to let her outside. So when her little brother Jamie is shipped out of London to escape the war, Ada doesn’t waste a minute—she sneaks out to join him.
So begins a new adventure of Ada, and for Susan Smith, the woman who is forced to take the two kids in. As Ada teaches herself to ride a pony, learns to read, and watches for German spies, she begins to trust Susan—and Susan begins to love Ada and Jamie. But in the end, will their bond be enough to hold them together through wartime? Or will Ada and her brother fall back into the cruel hands of their mother?
This masterful work of historical fiction is equal parts adventure and a moving tale of family and identity—a classic in the making.
- Age: 10-12 years
Love it! Ada has a great and strong personality, and the fact that she remains hopeful even through all her troubles.
- Age: 10-12 years
This book exactly replicates the feeling of the fear of World War II as a child. It also explains how to overcome anything that is blocking you from doing something you really want to. This is my favorite book of all the other ones I have read!
- Age: 10-12 years
This is an amazing book. It shows the struggles of Ada's hardship as she escapes from her abusive mother and bonds with Susan in a way that really appeals to the reader's feelings. This book is a definite must-read, along with its sequel, "The War I Finally Won".
- Age: 13-15 years
I really LOVE this book! It is one of my favorites. The main character in this story shows perseverance like no other person I have seen. Anyone who likes historical fiction HAS to read this book!