The War That Saved My Life

By: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Narrated by: Jayne Entwistle

An exceptionally moving story of triumph against all odds set during World War 2, from the acclaimed author of Jefferson's Sons and for fans of Number the Stars.

Nine-year-old Ada has never left her one-room apartment. Her mother is too humiliated by Ada's twisted foot to let her outside. So when her little brother Jamie is shipped out of London to escape the war, Ada doesn't waste a minute - she sneaks out to join him.

So begins a new adventure of Ada, and for Susan Smith, the woman who is forced to take the two kids in. As Ada teaches herself to ride a pony, learns to read, and watches for German spies, she begins to trust Susan - and Susan begins to love Ada and Jamie. But in the end, will their bond be enough to hold them together through wartime? Or will Ada and her brother fall back into the cruel hands of their mother?

This masterful work of historical fiction is equal parts adventure and a moving tale of family and identity - a classic in the making.

©2014 Kimberly Brubaker Bradley (P)2014 Listening Library

Critic reviews

"With her skillful presentation of true-to-life characters, Entwistle's narration is totally compelling." (AudioFile)

This story must be heard by all!

Any additional comments?

The War that Saved my Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley was a phenomenal read! From the very start I was drawn in and could not wait to find out what would happen next. I picked it up so that I could preview it before reading it aloud to my classroom, since it has been a recommendation. I ended up buying the audio version and listening to it in the car as well. As I was listening to it in the car with my four children (Ages 10, 9, 5 and 3) I was amazed to find them asking if we could go for a drive so they could find out what would happen next in the book. They were just as captivated to it as I was. There were times we laughed, nearly cried and felt a wealth of emotions as we experienced the events within the story. We found ourselves talking about the book long after we were in the car as well.

This unique story is told from the perspective of a little girl about the age of 10. It is set in London right at the start of World War II. Ada, the main character was born with a club foot. Her mother is embarrassed by her imperfection and has never let Ada leave their flat, not even to go to the bathroom down the hall. Due to the severe pain, Ada never learned to walk until one summer she taught herself while no one was looking. Her mother often neglected her and was very mean.

When England enters the war, most people in London send their children to the country to keep them safe. When Ada learns of this, she is astounded that her mother refuses to send her. She takes matters into her own hands and for the first time leaves with her little brother to seek safety.
This book is all about the experiences she has outside of the flat that was once her entire life.

I would highly recommend this book to people of all ages. It is a fantastic read. It is the kind of book that stay with you long after you finish turning the pages. For children, I love how Ada explained all the nuances she experienced with beautiful context clues to make those who are younger audiences understand and connect with the book. This is the first book I have read by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, but it will certainly not be my last.

PS - The audio version of this book only enhances the brilliant work of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. Jayne Entwistle completely captivated my entire family as we drove for extra trips to learn more about this incredible book.

Amazing

This story made me tear up many times - so wonderfully real - absolutely a perfect epic

One of the best stories I have ever read.

This was one of the best stories I have ever read. Ever. Suitable for adults and young adults.

Great story

Our daughter told us this was the best book she had read. We read and fully enjoyed it.

My 10 and 7 both enjoy it

A great story teaches kids about history and love.
The sound track is also very good.

A listen we shared...

A wonderful listen shared with my 11 y.o. daughter. We really enjoyed the history lessons woven through the tale but even more so, Brubaker Bradley's characters - imperfect and believable...oh so human and not dulled or dumbed down for a young audience. Lessons are not easily learn and not everything is tied up ribbon and bow-like, but overall Ada and her story are triumphant in their own way. We adore narrations by Jayne Entwhistle.

Wonderful!

My children, ages 12, 11, and 10, really loved this book. It is very hard to hear about the abuse that is described here, and it seems very realistic. We fell in love with the characters.

A True Classic

A Classic is one that teaches high moral values through characters and storytelling. This book is filled with moments to reflect on and encourages bravery, honesty, self control, love, and endurance. Beautifully written and expertly read, this piece is a true classic.

Wonderful!!

I love this book, and I didn’t want it to end so I’m very happy to see that there’s this part two!

Great Book, but editing is funky

I loved this book, but there are parts of the recording that suddenly jump around and skip forward almost like a CD skipping. I listened via the audible app, and the recording counter didn't jump around just the recording itself, so I'm not sure if it's an editing flaw or a flaw with the app.