Author:Ian Serraillier
THE SILVER SWORD by Ian Serraillier is an unforgettable World War II survival story.
Although the silver sword was only a paper knife, it became the symbol of hope and courage which kept the Balicki children and their orphan friend Jan alive through the four years of occupation when they had to fend for themselves. And afterwards it inspired them to keep going on the exhausting and dangerous journey from war-torn Poland to Switzerland, where they hoped to find their parents.
Based on true accounts, this is a moving story of life during and after the Second World War.
A funny, touching and heartfelt novel dealing with the angst of growing up and being forced into roles you do not want . . . I appreciated Liz Rettig's anti-heroine Kelly Ann, who adds a touch of acid to the sugar and her take on the world will be much appreciated by girls who don't want to conform to the standard pattern
—— The BooksellerVivid and fun right from page one
—— Jill Murphy , The BookbagIn the mood to rock with laughter, to hoot with glee and shake your head? Buy a copy of My Dating Disasters Diary by Liz Rettig, narrated in first person by the tremendously likeable and flippant tomboy, Kelly Ann
—— My Favourite BooksAt least four girls in the appropriate age-group spotted me reading this book and asked if they could borrow it, so I don't think it would be unpopular
—— The School LibrarianThis series is hilarious! It's funny, clever and is guaranteed to brighten even the worst of days
—— Wondrous ReadsA fantastic family read; this is a story with a big heart based on an amazing idea . . . This is easily one of my favourite books so far this year - a brilliant and magical read that will stay with me until the day that I die. It is a great debut story with bags of drive and vroom.
—— Mr Ripley's Enchanted BooksRefreshingly different and very engaging . . . There is so much to enjoy in this book
—— Reading ZoneA delightful book
—— Historical Novel SocietyUnusual and delightful
—— Parents in TouchI loved this delightful novel. It's intended for middle grade readers but people of all ages will love it.
—— The BookbagThe tale rollicks along with suspense, reversal, and surprise . . . Along the way, the author gives us a finely drawn evocation of the drama the French lived through, as well as an enthralling account of how a remarkable car - designed by an Italian, engineered by the French - was born. A captivating book for young people of all ages.
—— T.E. Carhart, bestselling author of 'The Piano Shop on the Left Bank'My book-loving boy was immediately engrossed . . . Each chapter left him wanting to know what was coming next, and he read it cover to cover with great interest.
—— whatsgoodtodo.co.ukA poignant and heart-warming story about life and all the hardships and troubles that this can bring...A fascinating and brilliant read...Another blinding story from Andy Mulligan, which delivers the unexpected with superb imaginative qualities.
—— Mr Ripley's Enchanted BooksA complex and absorbing novel with vivid characters
—— BooktrustGripping dark comedy . . . [A] clever portrayal of a boy on the cusp of adolescence struggling to reconcile opposing impulses within himself
—— Children's Books Ireland