A review by saraelm
Enemies in the Orchard: A World War 2 Novel in Verse by Dana VanderLugt, Dana VanderLugt
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
This carefully crafted and thoughtful Middle Grade novel-in-verse will prompt readers of all ages to consider how we approach otherness, familial roles and expectations, grief and trauma, and our own personal connections to the cultural and societal forces that shape us.
Clare’s story, though set amid the uncertainty of the Second World War, will resonate with any girl or woman who has wrestled with her place in life. Clare must not only choose whether to be guided by the stereotypes into which she has immersed or allow her experience to reveal to her the common threads that unite all human spirits.
Clare’s story, though set amid the uncertainty of the Second World War, will resonate with any girl or woman who has wrestled with her place in life. Clare must not only choose whether to be guided by the stereotypes into which she has immersed or allow her experience to reveal to her the common threads that unite all human spirits.