Common Sense Media Review
A devastatingly powerful, intense tale of abuse and love.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 9 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say this book is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with both heartwarming and distressing moments, particularly in its portrayal of familial relationships and the struggles of the main character. While many enjoy its engaging storytelling and character depth, parents are cautioned about its dark themes, suggesting it may not be suitable for younger readers.
- emotional journey
- dark themes
- character depth
- age recommendations
- engaging storytelling
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
When Willie comes to board with Tom Oakley during World War II's London Blitz, Mr. Tom realizes the boy has been abused. But when Willie's mother sends for him, and Mr. Tom doesn't hear from him again, he goes to London to find out what has happened to the boy. One of the most devastatingly powerful children's novels ever written.
Is It Any Good?
The story of Willie's recovery from severe abuse is given an unusually rich and vivid setting in this complex, multilayered novel. The book reads like a page-turner, though it is only in the central section, when Tom journeys to London to find Willie, that there is real action and suspense. But the rest is filled with vivid, tender portrayals and set pieces. This is a novel of terrible beauty, of the triumph of the spirit torn from the jaws of violence and tragedy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the difficult material here. What age do you think this book is for? Was there anything you found too intense?
This book has won several awards, including the 1982 International Reading Association Children's Book Award and the American Library Association's Notable Children's Books of 1982. Why do you think it is so highly regarded? Does it make a difference to you if a book has won awards or praise?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Family Life
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : HarperTrophy
- Publication date : January 1, 1981
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 318
- Award : ALA Best and Notable Books
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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