Five Children on the Western Front
Kate Saunders
eBook
(Delacorte Books for Young Readers, Aug. 2, 2016)
In this incredible, heart-wrenching story reminiscent of E. Nesbitâs Five Children and It, Kate Saunders illustrates the power of war but the even greater power of family, and the love that carries us out of the darkness of despair into the light of hope. The sand fairy, also known as the Psammead, is merely a creature from stories Lamb and Edith have heard their older brothers and sisters tell . . . until he suddenly reappears. Lamb and Edith are pleased to have something to take their minds off the war, but this time the Psammeadâs magic might have a serious purpose.Before their adventure ends, all will be changed, and the Lamb and Edith will have seen the Great War from every possible viewpointâthat of factory workers, soldiers and sailors, and nurses. But most of all, the warâs impact will be felt by those left behind, at the very heart of their family.Praise for Five Children on the Western Front Winner of the Costas Award for Childrenâs Fiction â
âAn irresistible read.ââPublishers Weekly, Starred Review âSkillful and deeply moving.â âThe Guardian âA rewarding experience.ââBooklist âSaunders strikes a surprisingly successful balance between the mischievous magic of the sand fairy and the harsh realities of wartime England.â âThe Bulletin âA dramatic, heartrending look at World War Iâs far-reaching consequences for families and individuals.ââSLJ âAn emotionally resonant, engaging story of personal growth (the siblingsâ) and moral education (the Psammeadâs). With issues of social and gender inequality and a compassionate take on the ruins of war, itâs historically convincing, thought-provoking, and sensitive.ââThe Horn Book Magazine
W