Bill's Reviews > The Silver Sword

I discovered The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier by accident as it was listed as potential reads in the back of another book I'd enjoyed. (I can't remember what book that was, mind you.. lol) Serraillier initially wrote the book in 1956. According to the write-up it took him 5 years to write it as he was also busy as a school teacher and helping raise 4 children during this time.

So, the book. It is set during WWII and just after the end of it. It starts in war-torn Poland and over the course of the story, moves across Poland, through Germany and ends in Switzerland. The story focuses on a brother and his two sisters. Ruth (the oldest), Edek (middle child / brother) and Bronja (5 year old daughter). It also follows Jan, a young fellow, Edek's age, no family and a self-sufficient grifter who lives on the streets of Warsaw and ends up sticking with the other three.

The story is their journey across war-torn Europe trying to reunite with their father and mother in Switzerland. It's a fascinating journey filled with bravery by this group of children. They show great ingenuity as they find themselves in situation after situation and manage to continue on their journey. So many things happen as they go through the various zones that Europe is divided into; Russian, British and American.

It's a wonderful story with fascinating encounters with soldiers from all countries, with friendly citizens who help them along their way. There are so many events that split them apart and bring them back together. The story moves along at a steady pace and it reads so very well. Great characters, a great adventurous story and even a portrayal of history that I wasn't aware of. Excellent book. (4.5 stars)