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Books matching: friendship during world war ii

19 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 19 
  1. #1

    Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
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    A moving, age-appropriate introduction to WWII history that gracefully blends suspense, heart, and real-life heroism. Great for readers of all ages wanting a story about friendship, bravery, and hope in dark times.

    Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is a middle-grade historical fiction novel set in Denmark during World War II. The story follows Annemarie Johansen, a young Danish girl who, along with her family, helps her Jewish best friend, Ellen Rosen, escape the Nazis by pretending she is part of their family. Through Annemarie's perspective, readers witness themes of bravery, courage, friendship, and resistance against oppression. The book provides a glimpse into the hardships faced by Jews during the Holocaust and the Danish Resistance's efforts to protect their fellow citizens.

    The narrative style of Number the Stars is engaging and emotional, offering a poignant portrayal of the Nazi occupation of Denmark and the risks taken by ordinary citizens to save lives during a time of war. The author, Lois Lowry, skillfully weaves a story that educates young readers about historical events while emphasizing the importance of bravery and standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger.

    "We have to practice for the athletic meet on Friday—I know I'm going to win the girls' race this week. I was second last week, but I've been practicing every day. Come on, Ellen," Annemarie pleaded,...
    April 1989
    154 pages

  2. #2

    Code Name Verity - Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
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    Unforgettable and clever, Code Name Verity is a beautifully crafted story of friendship, sacrifice, and survival - stick with the slower start and you'll be rewarded with an emotional powerhouse.

    In 'Code Name Verity', author Elizabeth Wein weaves a compelling story set during World War II, focusing on the friendship between two young women, Maddie and Julie, who find themselves involved in espionage and war efforts. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of the two protagonists, revealing a tale of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Through cryptic accounts, unexpected plot twists, and heartbreaking decisions, the story unfolds to showcase the depth of the characters' friendship and the challenges they overcome during the war.

    Just can’t think when it happened. She checked her papers, I checked my papers, Sergeant Silvey checked both of us, that headmistressy Special Operations officer who was nannying her checked, everybod...
    June 2012
    458 pages

  3. #3

    Lily's Crossing - Lily's Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff
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    A beautifully written, gentle historical novel - ideal for thoughtful readers who enjoy emotional depth, relatable characters, and a touch of nostalgia.

    Lily's Crossing is a touching novel set during World War II, focusing on a young girl named Lily Mollahan living in New York City. The story depicts her summer filled with loneliness as she navigates the absence of her father, who is drafted, and her best friend Margaret, who moves away. In Rockaway, she befriends Albert, a refugee from Hungary, and their friendship unfolds through shared struggles, lies, and hope. The plot reveals their challenges, including Lily's deception that could jeopardize Albert's safety, and their longing for family amidst the war's chaos.


    Patricia Reilly Giff’s writing style is accessible and engaging, appealing to both young readers and adults. She captures the innocence and emotions of childhood authentically, making the characters relatable. Her vivid depictions of wartime life allow readers to feel the weight of history while enjoying a heartfelt story of friendship. Though the book may not have high action or a complex plot, it resonates with themes of loyalty, growth, and resilience, making it a meaningful read for all ages.

    Lily sank back on her heels to look around at the blue walls and ceiling, and the gold stars pasted on here and there. Then she stretched up again, working with Poppy’s paint scraper, to peel off a st...
    1997
    208 pages

  4. #4

    The Orphan's Tale by Pam Jenoff
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    A unique, page-turning take on WWII historical fiction that spotlights a hidden corner of history - heart-wrenching, hopeful, and full of spectacle. Great for fans of untold stories and strong, complex friendships, but may not satisfy those craving deep character introspection.

    During World War II, a young girl named Noa finds herself cast out by her family after becoming pregnant by a German soldier. She rescues a Jewish baby from a train bound for a concentration camp and joins a traveling German circus as an aerialist. Meanwhile, Astrid, a Jewish woman forced to leave her German officer husband, also becomes part of the circus family. The story follows the intertwined lives of these two women, highlighting themes of bravery, friendship, and survival amidst the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Europe.

    I set down the brush I’d been using to scrub the floor, once-elegant marble now cracked beneath boot heels and set with fine lines of mud and ash that will never lift. Listening for the direction of t...
    February 2017
    407 pages

  5. #5

    Dear Mrs. Bird - Emmy Lake Chronicles by A.J. Pearce
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    A warm, feel-good read with a dash of British cheer, "Dear Mrs. Bird" delivers heart, humor, and hope amidst wartime hardships. Perfect for those seeking uplifting historical fiction with an irresistible, plucky heroine.

    Set in London during World War II, "Dear Mrs. Bird" follows the story of Emmeline Lake and her best friend Bunty as they navigate life during the Blitz. Emmy dreams of becoming a war correspondent but ends up as a typist for an advice column in a women's magazine owned by a strict editor, Mrs. Bird. The book captures the courage and resilience of ordinary people during wartime, while also showcasing the heartwarming friendship between Emmy and Bunty. The story is a blend of humor, sadness, and poignancy, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of life during the WWII Blitz.

    Emmy's journey involves secretly responding to rejected letters from Mrs. Bird's column, leading to unforeseen consequences that test her loyalty and determination. The novel beautifully portrays the atmosphere of wartime London, the effects of bombings and air raids, and the unwavering spirit of the English people. Through Emmy's experiences, readers witness themes of friendship, bravery, and healing amidst adversity, making "Dear Mrs. Bird" a courageous and uplifting tale set against the backdrop of WWII.

    When I first saw the advertisement in the newspaper I thought I might actually burst. I’d had rather a cheerful day so far despite the Luftwaffe annoying everyone by making us all late for work, and t...
    July 2018
    301 pages

  6. #6

    The Last Year of the War by Susan Meissner
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    A heartfelt, informative read that explores a rarely-discussed side of World War II through friendship and family. Offers powerful historical insight and emotional payoff, especially for fans of reflective historical fiction.

    'The Last Year of the War' by Susan Meissner is a historical fiction novel set during World War II, focusing on the friendship between two teenage girls, Elise and Mariko, who meet in an internment camp in Texas for German and Japanese Americans. The book follows their experiences during the war, their forced repatriation to Germany and Japan, and their attempts to reunite after decades apart. The narrative alternates between the past and present, providing a poignant exploration of friendship, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity.

    If Agnes hadn’t slipped her way into my mind to steal from it willy-nilly, I wouldn’t have started to forget things, and Teddy wouldn’t have given me the iPad for my birthday so that I could have my c...
    March 2019
    410 pages

  7. #7

    Stones in Water - Stones in Water by Donna Jo Napoli
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    A moving and eye-opening WWII tale with heart and grit - great for thoughtful teens and history fans, but younger or sensitive readers may want to proceed with caution.

    "Stones in Water" by Donna Jo Napoli is a gripping story set in WWII, following the journey of a young Italian boy named Roberto who becomes entangled in the horrors of war. The plot unfolds as Roberto's life is turned upside down when German soldiers take him and his friends away to work in labor camps. Through the eyes of Roberto, readers witness the harsh realities of war, the struggles for survival, and the unexpected friendships formed in the midst of chaos. The writing style captures the innocence of Roberto juxtaposed with the brutality of the war, creating a poignant narrative that delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the atrocities of WWII.

    Memo grinned. “Okay, now we understand each other.” He threw an arm around Roberto’s shoulder. “Your cousin Teresa. All I want is for you to tell her I’m a nice guy, right? She should think about mayb...
    1997
    213 pages

  8. #8

    Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian
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    A beautiful, heartfelt story that brings both tears and smiles - one of those rare books that truly resonates across ages. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a moving, memorable read.

    Good Night, Mr. Tom is a heartwarming story set during World War II, where children are evacuated to the countryside. The book follows the journey of a young boy named Will, who escapes his abusive mother to live with an old man named Tom. Through their relationship, both characters experience a rebirth, with themes of kindness, friendship, and the horrors of war beautifully intertwined. The writing style is captivating, with plot twists and unique supporting characters that make the story fascinating, especially for young readers.

    She stepped to one side. Behind the large iron gate that stood at the end of the graveyard was a small group of children. Many of them were filthy and very poorly clad. Only a handful had a blazer or...
    1981
    337 pages

  9. #9

    The Woman with the Blue Star by Pam Jenoff
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    'The Woman with the Blue Star' by Pam Jenoff tells the gripping story of Sadie Gault, a Jewish girl living in the Krakow ghetto during the Nazi occupation. When the ghetto is liquidated, Sadie and her family seek refuge in the sewers, where they meet Ella, a Polish girl who helps them survive. The novel explores themes of survival, friendship, and resilience amidst the horrors of World War II, portraying the struggles and triumphs of individuals facing unimaginable challenges. Pam Jenoff's writing style vividly transports readers to wartime Poland, offering a compelling narrative inspired by true events of Jewish survival in the sewers of Lviv.

    I was supposed to have been in the attic crawl space of the three-story building we shared with a dozen other families in the ghetto. Mama helped me hide there each morning before she set out to join...
    May 2021
    345 pages

  10. #10

    Mrs Tim of the Regiment - Mrs. Tim by D.E. Stevenson
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    A charming, comforting window into pre-war British army life, best enjoyed for its humor, character quirks, and sense of time. Perfect for fans of gentle domestic fiction and witty, observational storytelling.

    'Mrs Tim of the Regiment' by D.E. Stevenson follows the life of Mrs. Tim Christie, a military wife, as she navigates the challenges and joys of her role. The book provides a glimpse into the daily life of Mrs. Tim, her interactions with her husband, friends, and neighbors, and her adventures in the Scottish Highlands. Written in a diary style, the book captures the humor, charm, and domestic trivia that define Mrs. Tim's world, offering a comforting and relatable read for fans of gentle stories set in the 1930s.

    1932
    362 pages

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