This award-winning book is really something special. I bought my copy during a Reading for Pleasure conference that I was presenting at earlier this summer and began reading it on the train home. I continued reading it that evening, and the next day, and the next, until I reluctantly came to an end.
When The Sky Falls is inspired by a true story. Set during the Second World War, it follows the journey of Joseph, who has been sent to stay in the city with Mrs F. This is not the life he wants and feels as if everyone and everything is against him – until, that is, he realises that there is more to Mrs F. She owns a zoo, now closed down and half-empty, in which Adonis, a silverback gorilla, resides. At first, Joseph is frightened of Adonis and does not understand how Mrs F can dare to enter his cage. However, as Joseph continues to live with Mrs F, reluctantly go to school and help at the zoo, he develops a connection with Adonis. As the bombs continue to fall, it is Joseph who is left to watch over Adonis’ cage and, if it should be damaged, have to decide whether or not to pull the trigger.
This historical fiction captures so many themes and emotions that resonate in our present world, from Joseph’s struggle with dyslexia, to the hardships of rationing and living in poverty, to the deep grief felt by both a parent losing a child and a child losing a parent. It celebrates the power of friendship, kindness and of sharing feelings, even when those feelings are almost impossible to put into words.
This is a powerful, moving read is magnificent, particularly for KS3 readers, and demonstrates the importance of showing care and compassion both for others and for ourselves.
alicempen 