This Light Between Us: A Novel of World War II
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
•
Coming of Age•
HolocaustUSA & France • 1940s
•
War•
Coming of Age•
World History2020
Tor Teen
YA
12-18 years
690L
Super Short Summary
In the epistolary novel This Light Between Us by Andrew Fukuda, Japanese American boy Alex Maki from Bainbridge Island, Washington, and Jewish girl Charlie Lévy from Paris, France, form a deep friendship through letters exchanged before and during World War II, as they endure the persecution faced by their communities, maintaining their bond across time, distance, and social barriers. Sensitive topics include depictions of wartime violence, genocide, and racial slurs.
Emotional
Heartwarming
Melancholic
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
4,224 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
This Light Between Us by Andrew Fukuda receives praise for its poignant depiction of friendship amid WWII's tumultuous backdrop. Critics highlight the emotional depth and historical richness. However, some note occasional predictability and uneven pacing. Overall, it's lauded for its compelling narrative and strong character development.
Who Should Read This Light Between Us?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with emotional depth and themes of friendship amidst the backdrop of WWII will find This Light Between Us by Andrew Fukuda compelling. Comparable to The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, it's ideal for fans of poignant, character-driven narratives.
4,224 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A French Jewish girl with a passion for literature and Paris, known for her vivid friendship with Alex Maki through their long-standing pen pal relationship.
Alex’s older brother, a popular and sports-oriented all-American teenager who experiences a sense of betrayal and shame during the wartime internment of Japanese Americans.
A Hawaiian American of Japanese descent serving in the 442nd Regiment alongside Alex, initially seen as an antagonist but later becomes a close friend and confidant.
A family friend of the Lévy family who attempts to protect Charlie during Nazi-occupied France and serves as a conduit for her messages to Alex.
384
Novel • Fiction
•
Coming of Age•
HolocaustUSA & France • 1940s
•
War•
Coming of Age•
World History2020
Tor Teen
YA
12-18 years
690L
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