'McKay is a glutinously atmospheric writer, and this dense, action-packed saga – written during lockdown – is every bit as satisfying as its predecessor.' Emily Bearn, The Telegraph McKay refuses to dumb down the history, writing with such clarity and understanding that you can’t fail to be caught up in the cares of her loveable cast.' – Alex O'Connell, The Times Book of the Week Meanwhile Rupert and Clarry work secretly for peace – and a brighter future for them all. Then one September afternoon there are choices to be made.Īnd what does friendship truly mean, in the middle of a war? They grow up in worlds that would never meet, until war tumbles their lives together.

I eked out the final pages, not wanting it to end.' – Fiona Noble, The BooksellerĮrik and Hans are German boys. Full of achingly real characters (and also an excellent dog). 'It’s not necessary to have read The Skylarks’ War (though many beloved characters make reappearances) to be instantly and joyfully lost in this evocative, moving novel, showing McKay at the very top of her game.' – Imogen Russell-Williams, The Guardian The Swallows' Flight is the stunning companion novel to The Skylarks' War. All of these lives will cross in the most surprising ways in this heart-rending tale of war and compassion, and hope that can be found in even the most unexpected friendships, brought to life by award-winning author Hilary McKay.From the Costa Award-winning author Hilary McKay, comes a moving World War II story of family and friendship on opposite sides of a devastating conflict. And in London a mistreated dog roams the streets looking for handouts, and for a friend. They never expected to be forced to join the national service, training as pilots and tasked with hurting people. In Germany, Erik and Hans are best friends filled with plans for their future: Erik taking over their beloved local zoo, and Hans serving pastries right outside the gates. Their connection becomes all the more important when England joins the war against Germany and the blitz begins overhead.

Ruby and Kate’s first meeting is nearly disastrous, but the two lonely girls soon strike up a friendship.

And Kate is sickly all the time, her older siblings each taking turns looking after her. In England, Ruby has no friends because of the speckled blotches on her face that kids say look like dirt.

“A triumph.” -Philip Pullman, bestselling author of the His Dark Materials saga Four young lives across Europe are forever changed in the dawn of World War II in this gorgeous, heartbreaking, and ultimately uplifting novel from award-winning author Hilary McKay.

The Swallows' Flight by Hilary McKay