4.48 AVERAGE

emotional hopeful inspiring

I loved this sequel! It was like picking up with old friends and I kept wanting more and more of their stories. I didn’t want it to end. Four and a half stars.

A sequel that is just as poignant and well written as the original. I can't think of another story that tackles a child healing from trauma, abuse, and fear in such an approachable and loving way. You can't help but root for Ada throughout her story, and cheer her every hard-won happiness.

Even though I haven't yet read the first book, I really enjoyed this sequel (pub date Sept 18) to The War That Saved My Life. Eleven year old Ada is a wonderfully resilient character. In this book, she has had her club foot surgically repaired, relearns how to walk and run, and begins to learn to trust the adults around her. Ada and her brother Jamie are still in the English countryside during the middle of WWII, and they are still experiencing sad losses, but they are doing so with the love of Susan and the resources of the Thorton family backing them up. Though she makes mistakes and incorrect assumptions about people, Ada rises to meet all the challenges with which she is presented. Great story for introducing WWII to children.

Like the first book, I think the primary reason I enjoyed this book was due to the person reading for the audio version. She is fabulous! Overall, I’m glad I read this book. It did drag a bit, so I was glad to be listening and able to multitask with a project. I learn a little bit more every time I read a book set during war times, and I appreciate this book giving me some of that education.
dark emotional hopeful inspiring relaxing tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

The characters in this book are so endearing! This sequel is an inspiring meditation on bravery. With unconditional love, we can overcome and thrive.
emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

“I tried to speak but no words came out. I choked and then I was sobbing, and Susan rocked me back and forth, back and forth as if I was a little baby, as if she loved me, as if she always had.”

Intricately weaves together the tapestry of wartime England, presenting readers with a rich and emotional narrative. Through its portrayal of resilient characters and poignant family dynamics, the novel delves into the complexities of human experience amidst the backdrop of war. While some may critique its pacing or predictability, many readers find themselves drawn into the heartfelt journey of Ada Smith and her companions. Ultimately, the book offers a satisfying conclusion that resonates with themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.

I don't have the words. Ada is so wonderful, but so are a lot of the people around her. I didn't realize I needed this book to feel complete about her journey, but this was that good.