Wolves at the Door
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War. Wilderness. And the will to live.
Asta and her younger sister, Pieta, have watched in terror as Hitler's invasion spreads across Europe. Eventually, the war arrives in their city, bringing with it destruction and death. As the Nazis clash with Stalin's Red Army and relentless bombing rains from above, the girls flee to their grandparents' farm in the countryside. But no place is safe. Surrounded by enemies, Asta and Pieta are presented with one chance at escape: a transport ship leaving from the Baltic Sea.
Getting from the farm to the coast is an impossible trip through a brutal war in the dead of winter. With food scarce, warm clothing lacking, and few resources, the sisters have little chance of making it. And Asta and Pieta are not alone in their plans--everyone is headed to the harbor with the same desperate hope. Securing a place on the ship will require nothing short of a miracle. Their dangerous journey is only just beginning, though, and the sisters can't begin to imagine what they'll have to sacrifice to survive . . .
About this Author
Steve Watkins is the author of the young adult novels On Blood Road, Juvie, What Comes After, Great Falls, as well as the middle-grade novels Down Sand Mountain, Sink or Swim, and the Ghosts of War series. A former professor of journalism, creative writing, and Vietnam War literature, Steve cofounded and helps a nonprofit yoga studio and works with an urban reforestation organization in his hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia.
Reviews
Praise for Wolves at the Door
? "This glimpse into what it was like for those living in and fleeing from war -- based on the real-life history of the thousands of orphans left to fend for themselves during WWII, as addressed by Watkins in a historical note -- is finely detailed and beautifully told. While depictions of Asta and Pieta's struggles are heart-wrenching, their fierce sibling bond and inherent kindness toward others is an inspiring through line to this powerful tale." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)
? "A haunting testament to the strength of the human spirit." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
? "A powerful commentary on wartime inequities and the indomitable human spirit...This book's historical significance and poignant narrative offers a realistic, empathetic understanding of the impact of war." --School Library Journal (starred review)
Praise for Sink or Swim
"Fine, high-action historical fiction that will find an enthusiastic audience." -- Booklist
"A briskly paced, action-packed, surprisingly realistic war story." -- Kirkus Reviews
"[A]n appealing selection for reticent readers, and nonstop action recommends it to real world thrill-seekers of all reading stripes." -- Bulletin of the Center Children's Books
"[F]ull of action, adventure, and history." -- School Library Journal
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