Ages 10+1-min guideHistoryFamily
The War That Saved My Life
by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Read togetherBest for 10 and up, or read together at 9. A powerful, hopeful story. Ada’s mother abuses her, which is hard to read but handled with care.
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What it’s about
Ada was born with a clubfoot, and her mother keeps her locked in their London flat. When children are evacuated during World War II, Ada escapes with her brother to the countryside and a guardian named Susan.
The ending
What might come up
AbuseA lotAda’s mother hits her, locks her away and calls her names.
WarSomeBombings and wounded soldiers.
Death and lossSomePilots die in crashes, and Susan grieves her late friend Becky.
Big feelingsA lotTrust, fear and learning to be loved.
LanguageA littleA few uses of 'bloody' and one crude insult.
RomanceNone
Why kids like it
Ada learns to ride a horse and discovers what she can do.
Free printable quiz
- 1What problem does Ada have with her foot?
- 2Who is Ada’s brother?
- 3Who takes care of them?
- 4What is the pony’s name?
