Nominated for the Carnegie Medal for Writing "Will touch the heart of anyone who ever wanted to go home.The children's adventures, and McCaughrean's robust world-building, make this book one to get lost in. Incredibly well-researched and emotionally devastating, this gripping novel, brimming with vitality, is a story for those seeking hope in a sometimes-mad world." -- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette "McCaughrean writes with a light touch; her words dance as they show the organic growth of the quartet's relationships and their nonjudgmental mutual acceptance. This story of great complexity deftly and expertly shows how unconscionable violence can expose the artificiality of many absolutes and boundaries. Compelling, heartbreaking, and vibrantly alive with hope and courage." -- Kirkus (starred review) "Mesmerizing.McCaughrean's writing and characters are full of life.

Tragedy, heroism, hope, and miracles intertwine in the unpredictable, heart-rending months leading to the novel's conclusion.The [charactersg months leading to the novel's conclusion.The [charactersg months leading to the novel's conclusion.The [charactersg months leading to the novel's conclusion.The [characters] dare to find moments of joy and hold onto their pacifism." -- Booklist (starred review).