Publisher’s Weekly has released their Best of 2015 Books Lists. It just so happens that a book I am reading now has made it to their Top Ten list.
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley’s “The War that Saved My Life” stars 9/10-year-old Ada (even she is not sure of her exact age), brother Jaimie and their caretaker, Susan Smith in this WWII novel that takes place in England. Ada and Jaimie are suddenly whisked away from London to the countryside in fears that the city will shortly be bombed. Although most of the story takes place in the countryside, the brief beginning chapters in London are intense. Ada and Jaimie live with their ‘Mam’ who is a mean, abusive woman. Under Mam’s strict rule, Ada has never left the apartment. Her Mam is ashamed of her clubfoot and has done nothing to help her daughter’s condition. Mam locks her in a small cabinet overnight when she ‘misbehaves’ and treats her horribly. Ada’s chance at a better life comes when other local children are to be taken out of London for safety and she tags along.
Out in the country with their new caretaker, a single woman named Susan, Ada and Jaimie thrive as they receive a little care and attention. Ada learns that she is not at fault for her clubfoot. She teaches herself to ride a pony and sees grass, trees, and the sea for the first time. We cheer for Ada and Jaimie’s every accomplishment and when they finally begin to receive the love they deserve.