
Reach for this book when your child feels like a square peg in a round hole or is struggling to find a community where their unique quirks are celebrated. Set against the backdrop of the impending Second World War, the story follows Tally, a spirited girl sent from London to a progressive, unconventional boarding school in the countryside. There, she discovers a world of creative freedom before embarking on a dangerous mission to save a young prince from a fictional European kingdom being threatened by Nazi influence. It is a sweeping historical adventure that explores themes of loyalty, the definition of family, and the courage to stand up against tyranny. While it touches on the gravity of war and political upheaval, Ibbotson's prose remains lyrical and deeply comforting, making it an excellent choice for mature 9 to 13 year olds who enjoy rich, atmospheric storytelling.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe Prince's father is assassinated, which is a pivotal and emotional plot point.
Depicts the rising Nazi ideology and prejudice of the late 1930s.
Themes of grief and the loss of one's homeland.
The book deals with the assassination of a parent (King of Bergania) and the impending threat of the Holocaust and WWII. These topics are handled with a blend of historical realism and a fairytale-like moral clarity. The approach is secular and the resolution is hopeful, focusing on the sanctuary found in found families.
A thoughtful 10 or 11-year-old who loves nature, history, and stories about kids who have more agency than the adults around them. Especially suited for a child who feels restricted by traditional environments.
Parents should be aware of the king's assassination scene, which is impactful but not overly graphic. A brief discussion about the historical context of 1939 will help clarify the stakes. A parent might see their child being frustrated by strict social hierarchies or expressing anxiety about world events and wanting to know how 'kids' can make a difference.
Younger readers (9-10) will focus on the magic of the school and the adventure of the rescue. Older readers (12-13) will pick up on the political nuances and the poignant loss of a world on the brink of war.
Unlike many WWII stories that focus on the front lines, this highlights the power of 'alternative' education and the idea that being a dreamer is a form of bravery.
Tally Hamilton is sent to Delderton, a progressive school where students are encouraged to follow their passions rather than rigid rules. When her school folk-dancing troupe is invited to the kingdom of Bergania for a festival, Tally befriends Prince Karil. As the threat of Nazi Germany looms over the neutral kingdom, Karil's father is assassinated, and Tally and her school friends must orchestrate a daring escape to bring the prince to safety in England.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.