Bradley, Kimberly Brubaker. The War I Finally Won. Dial, 2017. $16.99. 385p. ISBN 978-0-525-42920-3. Ages 10-14. P7Q9
In the sequel to Newbery Honor winner The War That Saved My Life, 11-year-old Ada has surgery to fix her clubfoot before she moves back to the English countryside, trying to avoid the bombing during World War II. Class issues arise as the recently orphaned girl who grew up in poverty lives with her younger brother, a young lesbian woman from the middle class and a privileged older woman from nobility. Bradley aptly depicts the struggles of Ada’s feelings about her mother, moving between gratitude that she is safe from the abuse and guilt at those feelings. Complicating the lives of the characters is a German Jewish refugee who is housed with them. Lady Thorton’s hatred for all Germans generates difficulty for everyone, but Ada’s patient guardian, Susan, gives Ada a sense of security. Sufficient information about the first book makes this book a read-alone, and the events surrounding Ada are tear-jerking.
Verdict: The development of all the major characters is realistic as is the depiction of deprivation and sacrifice during the war in England. Ada’s growth from a terrified girl to wisdom and understanding despite her physical and emotional pain makes the book a fascinating read.
November 2017 review by Nel Ward.
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