UNDER THE LONDON SKY

A polio survivor and her friends navigate life in London during the Blitz in this translated Dutch import.

After spending a year convalescing, 14-year-old Ella finds herself changed. Her left leg is weak, leaving her with a limp and requiring her to wear a special shoe. Being around a lot of people is overwhelming, which makes crowding into the Underground every night to shelter from air raids nerve-wracking—especially because the tunnels trigger memories of being immobilized in an iron lung. Soon, however, three unexpected friends show Ella she doesn’t “have to spend the rest of [her] life being afraid.” Outspoken feminist Quinn, the daughter of a lord from a country estate, is determined to travel and “do a job that matters.” Quinn’s estranged brother, Sebastian, wants to live openly as someone who’s attracted to men at a time when such relationships are illegal. Angry, wisecracking Jack schemes to save money to emigrate to America—and makes Ella wonder if he can see her old self. But when tragedy strikes, Ella struggles to move forward. Though some characters feel thinly drawn, Woltz poignantly explores topics including privilege and the “cages” of class and gender norms. While the author doesn’t sugarcoat the grim physical and psychological effects of war, she lightens the darkness with banter, romance, and acts of kindness. Historical photos help bring the setting to life.

Touching and ultimately hopeful.