The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a touching story based in England during World War II.
The story begins in London, England where twelve year old Ada Smith and her clubfoot are hidden away from society. Living with her younger brother and her abusive mother in their small London flat, Ada is banned from leaving as her mother is ashamed of her clubfoot and her inability to walk. As the War quickly approaches England, Ada and her younger brother, Jamie escape their abusive mother as they evacuate to the countryside. There, they navigate their new life and learn to understand Susan Smith, the woman who is forced to take them in.
The book provides an intriguing new perspective on war, suggesting that it could have a positive effect. Throughout the story, Ada and Jamie struggle to break through to Susan who closes her self off, still mourning the death of an old best friend.
The book appeals to all audiences as it tells a sentimental story during time of war, including aspects of family, history, action, battling your past, and much more. As the book progresses through the time of war, Ada explores everything from figuring out how to walk to helping soldiers coming straight from the evacuation of Dunkirk. Encountering people for the first time ever during a time of war draws new connections for Ada as she learns the concept of friends and what it really means to have a family.
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley manages to make a story about Ada exploring her new everyday life, engaging as the plot is moving and riveting at the same time. When reading this intriguing novel, you will find yourself feeling intense emotions for every character, as you experience love, trust and the power of perseverance. At first Ada is scared, as love is unknown for her, when she first encounters it she is uncomfortable. As Susan Smith begins to break out of her shell because she is forced to mind for the children she begins to care for them and their feelings. For example when the conversation about the holidays came up, it was unknown to Ada. “Somehow Christmas was making me feel jumpy inside. All this talk about being together and being happy and celebrating – it felt threatening. Like I shouldn’t be part of it. Like I wasn’t allowed. And Susan wanted me to be happy, which was scarier still.” Eventually Ada learns to experience living instead of just surviving, which is spread to her from the characters around her which brings Susan Smith out of her bubble. When Ada faces an unexpected hardside she explains, “I don’t want to just survive”, showing her change in character after experiencing what living is really about.
The war that saved my life is a great read for anyone, especially those looking for an inspiring story filled with emotions and an exciting plot.
