There seem to be plenty of books about the war for readers aged 9-12, so I initially held back from picking up this book, despite the inviting cover design.

But it's been widely reviewed and nominated for various prizes, and then it was recommended to me by a friend, so I thought I should give it a try and, wow, I'm so glad I did. It is an absolutely wonderful read. Reviewers have compared the author to Noel Streatfeild or 'Little Women for younger readers'. And this captures the writing perfectly. There's a beautiful sense of community and solidarity, but also the three girls are powerfully independent and resourceful. I loved it and was sorry to leave the characters at the end.

The story is told in three parts, taking a different period of the war years from the perspective of each one of the three sisters - Lydia, Peggy and Teddy.

Beginning in 1939, war has been declared and the girls have been evacuated to the countryside. Lydia is the oldest and is always looking out for her sisters, trying to keep everyone happy and safe. But events take a turn and she decides to take drastic action.

Four years later and the girls are back in London, sharing a house with various friends and relatives. They're all having to make sacrifices but Peggy is determined to go to art school, no matter what.

In 1946, the war is over and Teddy has the opportunity to go on a school trip to Paris. But her aim is not to improve her French, but to try and find one of the family's dearest friends.

I can't recommend this book highly enough. It's glorious!