Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is a companion novel to the beautiful story of Skylarks’ War. Hilary McKay has the most wonderful style of writing which gives you historical fact as well as an emotional story highlighting family, friendships and the development of dynamics created by war.

Set in World War 2, this follows the lives of two German boys, Erik and Hans as they have to navigate life joining the Hitler Youth. Alongside this story, we also see Ruby and Kate who are two English girls. Their stories should never have overlapped, but for the war they are living through. I absolutely loved the way Hilary tackled this era of history by combining different experiences of children.

The characters are ones whose stories you will become completely invested in; their views of the world are completely different and really help set the scene, as well as describe the changes to society around them in a detailed yet emphatic way. They have totally different perspectives, which adds real drama to the story and will keep you turning the pages.

I am excited today to have an extract from the story which will give you a glimpse of this brilliant story, as well as a look at dog, who is one of the key characters you’ll meet in the book:

If you like the sound of this book, you can buy it here.

Emily x

📚Book gifted by publisher