War and Millie McGonigle

By: Karen Cushman

Narrated by: Emma Galvin

The Newbery Award-winning author of Catherine, Called Birdy and The Midwife's Apprentice tells a heartfelt and humorous story of WWII on the homefront.

Millie McGonigle lives in sunny California, where her days are filled with beach and surf. It should be perfect--but times are tough. Hitler is attacking Europe and it looks like the United States may be going to war. Food is rationed and money is tight. And Millie's sickly little sister gets all the attention and couldn't be more of a pain if she tried. It's all Millie can do to stay calm and feel in control.

Still--there's sand beneath her feet. A new neighbor from the city, who has a lot to teach Millie. And surfer boy Rocky to admire--even if she doesn't have the guts to talk to him.

It's a time of sunshine, siblings, and stress. Will Millie be able to find her way in her family, and keep her balance as the the world around her loses its own?

Critic reviews

"Transforms grim history into a light for dark times." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“A lively choice for historical fiction fans.” —Booklist

“Newbery Medalist Cushman melds historical detail and generous humor in this gently paced novel of family travails and sociopolitical tensions set in 1941 California.” —Publishers Weekly

“World War II raises the stakes, though, presenting a momentous obstacle that even the most determined child cannot fully master, but renaming her journal Book of Life helps Millie make a fresh start.” —The Bulletin

"A must-buy for school and children’s libraries looking to expand their historical fiction selections.” —School Library Journal

“Another outstanding creation…A lively book filled with humor, love and transformation.” —Bookpage