In this incredible, heart-wrenching story reminiscent of E. Nesbit's
Five Children and It, Kate Saunders illustrates the power of war but
the even greater power of family, and the love that carries us out of
the darkness of despair into the light of hope.
The sand fairy, also known as the Psammead, is merely a creature from
stories Lamb and Edith have heard their older brothers and sisters tell
. . . until he suddenly reappears. Lamb and Edith are pleased to have
something to take their minds off the war, but this time the Psammead's
magic might have a serious purpose.
Before their adventure ends, all will be changed, and the Lamb and Edith
will have seen the Great War from every possible viewpoint--that of
factory workers, soldiers and sailors, and nurses. But most of all, the
war's impact will be felt by those left behind, at the very heart of
their family.
Praise for *Five Children on the Western Front
*
Winner of the Costas Award for Children's Fiction
★ "An irresistible read."--Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
"Skillful and deeply moving." --The Guardian
"A rewarding experience."--Booklist
"Saunders strikes a surprisingly successful balance between the
mischievous magic of the sand fairy and the harsh realities of wartime
England." --The Bulletin
"A dramatic, heartrending look at World War I's far-reaching
consequences for families and individuals."--SLJ
"An emotionally resonant, engaging story of personal growth (the
siblings') and moral education (the Psammead's). With issues of social
and gender inequality and a compassionate take on the ruins of war, it's
historically convincing, thought-provoking, and sensitive."--The
Horn Book Magazine
