The Skylarks' War cover art

The Skylarks' War

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The Skylarks' War

By: Hilary McKay
Narrated by: Katherine Press
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About this listen

Winner of the Costa Children’s Book Award 2018.

The Skylarks' War is a beautiful story following the loves and losses of a family growing up against the harsh backdrop of World War One, from the award-winning Hilary McKay.

Clarry and her older brother Peter live for their summers in Cornwall, staying with their grandparents and running free with their charismatic cousin, Rupert. But normal life resumes each September – boarding school for Peter and Rupert, and a boring life for Clarry at home with her absent father, as the shadow of a terrible war looms ever closer.

When Rupert goes off to fight at the front, Clarry feels their skylark summers are finally slipping away from them. Can their family survive this fearful war?

©Hilary McKay 2018 (P)2018 Macmillan Digital Audio Fiction Growing Up Growing Up & Facts of Life Historical Fiction Literature & Fiction War Heartfelt

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Critic reviews

This is McKay at her finest, all the heart and warmth of the Casson family books - with a touch of the Cazalets. It's both a thrilling family adventure and a truthful, heart-breaking examination of the impact of war... [an] exceptional historical novel. (Fiona Noble)
Hilary McKay is surely the heir to Mary Wesley. The Skylarks' War is just lovely. (Charlotte Eyre, The Bookseller)
The Skylarks' War is bloody brilliant, the kind of classic that rings with beauty and conviction and heart-stopping emotion. Not read a novel this good since Eva Ibbotson died. (Amanda Craig)
All stars
Most relevant  
This book really appealed to me as soon as I read the description on its publishers Facebook
page and yet it took me a while to download it, not knowing what to expect or if I would enjoy it. If you too are having similar thoughts do not hesitate, just download it. The Skylark’s War is simply beautiful, the characters are well rounded, all totally different personalities and yet they all belong with one another. This book was more than I could have ever imagined it was going to be, the narrator was pitch perfect, I hope she is used more often as I have listened to a fair few dire ones of late.

Amazing

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I have been looking for books that my daughters and I can listen to separately and then discuss. This was perfect. Ideal for 9+ but my younger daughter, 7, enjoyed it too. Some of the story went over her head but I didn't feel anything was inappropriate. It is a serious yet gentle introduction to war tales with some grown up subjects covered in a helpful way for younger listeners. My 9 year old and I have had a few great chats about it. A genuinely enjoyable read/listenfor adults too!

Great book to share with your children

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Such a moving story, heartbreaking at times and then also uplifting. Portrays the harsh reality of the First World War and the effect it had on the men (or boys) as well as those at home. The story also highlights how the war gave some women more opportunities than they would have had previously. Beautifully written, the characters are so real and full of life, I love their humour and funny ways. Narration was excellent and fitted well with the characters.

Stunning

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Oh my heart! I’ve been hearing so many wonderful things about The Skylarks’ War by Hilary McKay and it deserves every single bit of praise. There is so much heart and warmth in this book. It is so special. The audio edition was wonderful, the narrator made the story even more special.

Truly special

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A beautiful description of two families up to and during and after world War 1. This book clearly describes the psychology of both men and women during this difficult time, boarding school and the effects of parental absence and close family and friendship. The narrator has a clipped no nonsense tone which marries perfectly with the main characters Clarey, her Father, and Vanessa. It is also a summer book reminding us of the beauty of blue skies, sea and sunshine, bathing and horses.

Summer loving

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What a wonderful book. Excellent characters and just a great story. Yes it covers the awfulness of the war, but also it is a story of hope and covers themes that still resonate with modern times. It’s a children’s book, but as with all good children’s books, it could be enjoyed by any age. It really is fabulous. The narration was also very good.

Fabulous

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A nostalgic story of growing up and the ups and downs of WW1.

A Really Lovely Story

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This is a wonderful story, you will finish with tears of joy in your eyes!

Just read it….

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Although this book is a children's book, it can certainly be enjoyed by all ages. As an adult I absolutely love it.
It doesn't shy away from the horror of the 1st world war.
The story is magical and moved me to tears, both of joy and saddnes.
I couldn't stop listening and didn't want it to end.
It could well be one of my favourite books, certainly right there at the top of the 5 star rating.

Wow what a amazing listening.

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This was great to listen to while reading along with the book. The narrator brings the story to life.

Amazing Narration

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