The Novel of World War 2 Series
by Amanda McCrina (Author)
Reading level: Ages 14 and up
Books in series: 2
Read in order: Yes
Tags: war suspense historical friendship family culture action
A tightly woven YA thrill ride exploring political conflict, deep-seated prejudice, and the terror of living in a world where betrayal is a matter of life or death.Books in series: 2
Read in order: Yes
Tags: war suspense historical friendship family culture action
Gr 9 Up—In 1944, Soviet-controlled Lwow, Poland, is not only suffering from the hardships and atrocities of World War II, but fighting for its identity. Is it a Ukrainian or Polish city? Due to ever-changing borders, the answer is not clear and those who live there are paying the price.
As a child of a Ukrainian father and Polish mother, Tolya doesn't know which identity will keep him safest. After making a critical error, trying to protect a young woman on the street, Tolya kills a Russian political officer, changing everything. Now Tolya is on the run with Solovey, a Ukrainian freedom fighter, when a betrayal from within the group upends all of their plans.
This action-packed historical thriller is perfect for those who are looking for a WWII book without the romance found in many YA historical novels. McCrina gives voice to a story that has not been told before. Original and exciting, the only difficulty is keeping track of who is on which side. Nonstop action and intrigue keeps readers on the edges of their seats and makes this a great title to hand to those looking for a meatier historical novel.
VERDICT For those who want something different from their war stories. Energetic and fast-paced, this book will keep readers wanting more; be prepared to provide read-alikes like Monica Hesse's "Girl in the Blue Coat" and Elizabeth Wein's "Code Name Verity" series.—Maryjean Riou, Hunterdon County Lib., Flemington, NJ [from School Library Journal]
Recognition: School Library Journal Best Young Adult Books of the Year (2022); Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Books of the Year (2022)
Novel of World War 2 Series Books in Order
Print series book list1. Traitor (2020)
2. The Silent Unseen (2022)
Reviews
Reviews5
“Alive with detail and vivid with insight, Traitor is an effortlessly immersive account of a shocking and little-known moment in the turbulent history of Poland and Ukraine―and ironically, a piercing and bittersweet story of unflinching loyalty. I think Tolya has left my heart a little damaged forever.” ―Elizabeth Wein, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author of Code Name Verity and The Enigma Game