A moving and inspiring read for 11 - 14 year olds

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Beginning in the run-up to the First World War, The Skylarks' War by Hilary McKay is an incredible (and very moving) read. Winner of the 2018  Costa Children's Book Awards, the story is a worthy addition to the canon of children's books set during WWII and WWI which includes Carrie's War, the Silver Sword, Goodnight Mister Tom and Charlotte Sometimes.

I particularly like the way that McKay explores gender stereotypes (the heroine, Clarry, is always battling against the 'girls don't do that' sentiment of the times)  and the gaps between public behaviour and private fears. You engage with the characters almost immediately. Their behaviour is never cliched and you find yourself warming to people you expected to loathe. Look out for lots of plot twists and some deeply emotional moments)

I strongly recommend this to our students!

Read more about the book here

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