Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.48 AVERAGE
4.48 AVERAGE
While I like this one, it didn’t really measure up to the first one.
I didn't believe the first book needed a sequel, but I'm so glad there was one.
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley certainly did not disappoint. I’m going to be careful here as I don’t want to spoil anything for those who still want to read this series. The story line picks right up where the last book left off. Ada and her brother, Jamie, are somewhat in limbo — not knowing where they will permanently live. Ada is facing potential surgery and Lady Thorton has offered a cottage on her estate for a short-term living arrangement. Ada is growing up, both physically and emotionally, as she continues learning how to face her deep anger and fears. We meet a new character named Ruth, a Jewish girl from Germany who has been separated from her family and brought to Susan for extensive math tutoring. But since Ruth is also from Dresden, she is pretty much hated by the entire English community (thinking she might be a German spy). We learn more about the entire Thorton family in this book, including Jonathan (who makes a secret visit, back from the war). And while this sketchy summary may sound very dry as I attempt to avoid spoilers, the book is NOT. It’s full of twists and turns, healing and heartache. And yes, I spilled many tears as this book drew to a close. Bradley is uncertain whether there will be a third installment to this series, so I’ll definitely keep my ear to the ground!
This is the follow up book to the 2016 Newberry Honor Book, the War That Saved My Life.
I liked revisiting Ada and her brother, Jamie. To observe their struggles and their triumphs. There was a lot of character growth in Ada this time around.
However, there was an underlying tone to the book that didn't sit right with me. I can't quite put my finger on it. But that made it a 3 instead of a 4.
I liked revisiting Ada and her brother, Jamie. To observe their struggles and their triumphs. There was a lot of character growth in Ada this time around.
However, there was an underlying tone to the book that didn't sit right with me. I can't quite put my finger on it. But that made it a 3 instead of a 4.
This follow up to one of my favorite books from 2016, The War that Saved My Life, is stunning. Often a sequel does not live up to the original. That is definitely not the case here. This book was every bit as good as the first.
This duo may be categorized as childrens' literature, but they have enough depth to cross ages and generations.
This duo may be categorized as childrens' literature, but they have enough depth to cross ages and generations.
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I loved this book as much as the first. If there were more in the series, I'd probably love them just as much. This book, like the first felt real to me, like I was there with Ada through all the ups and downs. Her development in this book was amazing. She no longer looked just within herself, but to those around her and even beyond. The themes in this one were a plenty, a lot to pack into a book for younger readers, but I do believe it was done beautifully. Again, another book I will be continuously recommend to anyone and everyone who will listen. Please do yourself a favour and read these books.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Child death, Antisemitism
The themes of love, overcoming abuse and trauma (both in homelife and in wartime), letting yourself BE loved, grief and overcoming physical adversities are quite a few themes to pack into a middle grade novel. And Bradley does it beautifully. My strongest recommendation is to read BOTH OF THESE BOOKS RIGHT NOW. Please.