Author: Aidan Chambers
Publisher: New York: Dutton Books
Publication Date: 1999
ISBN: 0-525-46863-3
Pages: 312
Summary: Told in double narratives, this book follows the adventures of Jacob Todd as he visits Holland to meet Geertrui, the woman who cared for his soldier grandfather during the Second World War. Set against the backdrop of Geertrui's recollections about that time, the book follows Jacob as he learns about life, love, and himself.
Major Characters: Jacob Todd (grandson), Daan Wesseling (friend), Ton (friend), Geertrui Wesseling, Jacob Todd (grandfather)
Comments: This is a very unique and captivating book. It makes you think and examines some controversial issues, such as euthanasia, homosexuality and social propriety. The way the book switches between the two different storylines is accomplished very well. The reader doesn't get confused by it, and both sets of characters are interesting and likeable. None of the people are all good or all bad, which makes them seem more realistic and identifiable. This book has received a lot of praise and won the Carnegie Medal.
Genre: Historical Fiction
Age Level: 16+
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