SuitabookDolls of war
Shirley Parenteau
Book summary
A historical story about a girl’s attachment to a Japanese doll during wartime, and the pressure to choose between that personal bond and national loyalty.
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Shirley Parenteau
A historical story about a girl’s attachment to a Japanese doll during wartime, and the pressure to choose between that personal bond and national loyalty.
A lively story about a wronged schoolgirl choosing increasingly risky ways to recover her future. Its strongest discussion point is the gap between understanding Bernetta’s predicament and approving of her solution.
Clare Furniss
This offers a tense journey story alongside a close account of sibling care. Clem’s storytelling, memories and uncertain perspective add emotional depth, while the political setting invites reflection on belonging, surveillance, displacement and how families preserve hope under pressure.
Polly Ho-Yen
A tense, emotionally serious survival story follows Ade through a collapsing city while his mother withdraws and neighbours become an unexpected support network. Its strongest offering is a child-centred exploration of vulnerability, responsibility and collective care.
Robert Swindells
This is a socially serious novel about a child living under strict religious and family control. Its central tension concerns secrecy, loyalty and whether Martha should help reveal what her parents want hidden.
Norma Jean Lutz
This is a historical family story about fitting in, responding to school teasing and deciding whether to challenge unfair blame directed at Japanese-American friends. Its central interest lies in personal choices made amid wider wartime uncertainty.
Robyn Parnell
A school mystery about a child under social pressure, with a new friendship helping him investigate an accusation. Humour sits alongside bullying, prejudice, moral choices and family conversations about religion and values.
Lesley Parr
A promising discussion choice for a reader interested in fairness and resisting other people's expectations.