The war I finally won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Text, 2017. ISBN 9781925498851
Highly recommended. Sequel to the award winning The war that saved my life. "When Ada's clubfoot is surgically fixed at last, she knows for certain that she's not what her mother said she was - damaged, deranged, crippled mentally as well as physically. She's not a daughter anymore, either. What is she? World War II continues, and Ada and her brother, Jamie, are living with their loving legal guardian, Susan, in a borrowed cottage on the estate of the formidable Lady Thorton - along with Lady Thorton herself and her daughter, Maggie. Life in the crowded cottage is tense enough, and then, quite suddenly, Ruth, a Jewish girl from Germany, moves in. A German? The occupants of the house are horrified. But other impacts of the war become far more frightening. As death creeps closer to their door, life and morality during wartime grow more complex. Who is Ada now? How can she keep fighting? And who will she struggle to save?" Publisher
I absolutely loved this book. I found myself wanting to read it any spare moment I had. Although I had not read the other books about Ada I did not have any trouble following the storyline - although I will be seeking out the first book! The characters are so lifelike and it is extremely easy to make emotional connections with each and every one of them. The story touches on persistence, love, friendship and ignorance.
It would make a fantastic read aloud although it would need to be for upper primary students as there are references to the abuse and neglect Ada faced prior to being evacuated from London. It provides a fantastic insight into the hardships that affected all during the war - from the very poor to the wealthy. A must have for the library collection. Teacher's notes are available.
Kathryn Schumacher