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97 pages 3 hours read

The War I Finally Won

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

The War I Finally Won

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

HL520L

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Super Short Summary

Set in Britain from 1940 to 1943, The War I Finally Won follows 11-year-old Ada and her brother Jamie, who live with their guardian Susan in Kent after being evacuated from London. The narrative details Ada's surgery to correct her clubfoot, the integration of a German Jewish girl named Ruth into their household, and the evolving dynamics among them amidst World War II. The story addresses complex themes such as trauma, grief, and healing.

Inspirational

Emotional

Challenging

Contemplative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.6

47,699 ratings

92%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley captivates readers with its compelling narrative and richly developed characters. Positive reviews highlight its poignant storytelling and historical accuracy, praising Bradley's exploration of resilience and hope amidst adversity. Some critics feel the pacing drags at times, but overall, it's considered a powerful sequel.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The War I Finally Won?

The reader who would enjoy The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley typically appreciates heartwarming historical fiction, emotional growth, and resilience in young protagonists. Fans of The War That Saved My Life and Anne of Green Gables would find this story compelling, as it highlights courage and healing during World War II.

4.6

47,699 ratings

92%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Ada Smith

Ada is a young girl living in wartime England who, after corrective surgery for her clubfoot, learns to navigate a world filled with new opportunities and challenges.

Jamie is Ada's younger brother, known for his vivacious spirit and love for their new home in Kent, as well as his affection for animals like his cat, Bovril.

Susan acts as a compassionate guardian to Ada and Jamie, offering them stability and love while being empathetic to their past traumas.

Initially aloof and aristocratic, Lady Thorton learns humility and empathy during the war, adjusting to the changing social landscape and gaining new skills.

Ruth is a young Jewish girl from Germany who, after initial mistrust, becomes an integral part of the community in Kent while coping with the absence of her parents.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

HL520L

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