THE SKYLARK'S WAR by Hilary McKay

 

The Skylark's War by Hilary McKay

Historical Fiction, World War I, Sex Roles Fiction

324 pages

Description

Booklist starred (August 2018 (Vol. 114, No. 22))

Grades 7-10. While most writers fill in their main character’s backstory in a few paragraphs, this unusual novel begins when Clarry is born, in 1902, and follows her for more than 20 years. 

She and her older brother, Peter, grow up in a somewhat affluent, rather grim London household, but each year their emotionally distant father sends them off to Cornwell to spend a gloriously happy summer of freedom with their grandparents and their cousin Rupert. Midway through the book, 

WWI begins and their lives (Rupert’s in the trenches in France, and his cousins’ and their friends’ 

in England) are increasingly shaped by forces beyond their control. The characters are sharply delineated by their varied personalities, inclinations, and experiences. Their actions, though occasionally unexpected, seem inevitable in retrospect. McKay brings the period settings to life with vivid details, particularly when the war brings horrors to France and hardships to the home front. Flashbacks to the boys’ pivotal boarding school days fill the gaps in their stories, but the focus always returns to Clarry, her steadfast relationships, and her gradually widening world. Though love, pain, and loss shape this emotionally resonant story of coming of age in turbulent times, the ending is quietly hopeful and wholly satisfying.

Comments
I was drawn into this story despite some misgivings about it being too old-fashioned, but the writing style fits the time period perfectly. The timeless themes of war's devastating effects are portrayed honestly. The historical aspect brings to life the time period. This book should appeal to a wide audience. Highly recommended.