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“Proving that her courage and compassion carry far more power than her disability, Ada earns self-respect, emerges a hero, and learns the meaning of home.”
— Publishers Weekly (starred review)
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“Involving, poignant, nuanced…This is a feel-good story but an earned
one…distinct and powerful in its own right.”
— Horn Book (starred review)
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Ada’s voice is brisk and honest; her dawning realizations are made all the more poignant for their simplicity…Things come to an explosive head, metaphorically and literally. Ignorance and abuse are brought to light, as are the healing powers of care, respect and love. Set against a backdrop of war and sacrifice, Ada’s personal fight for freedom and ultimate triumph are cause for celebration.”
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
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“There is much to like here—Ada’s engaging voice, the vivid setting, the humor, the heartbreak, but most of all the tenacious will to survive.”
— School Library Journal
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“The home-front realities of WWII, as well as Ada’s realistic anger and
fear, come to life in Bradley’s affecting and austerely told story, and readers
will cheer for steadfast Ada as she triumphs over despair.”
— Booklist
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“Jayne Entwistle’s narration
enhances this bittersweet story of two poor children from London during WWII…Entwistle
movingly captures the children’s sweet naïveté as well as their abusive
mother’s brutality. She deftly portrays country dweller Susan Smith, who is at
first reluctant to take in the children. Along with a touching story, listeners
will be rewarded with a fascinating history from the perspective of kids who
lived through the war. With her skillful presentation of true-to-life
characters, Entwistle’s narration is totally compelling. Winner of the
AudioFile Earphones Award.”
— AudioFile