“A Place to Hang the Moon” Review

“The first words of a new book are so delicious—like the first taste of a cookie fresh from the oven and not yet properly cooled.”
— Kate Albus, A Place to Hang the Moon

Book Title: A Place to Hang the Moon

Author: Kate Albus

Length: 303 pages

Genre: Children’s Literature, Historical Fiction, Fiction

My Rating: 5/5 stars

Age Rating: 9+

Content Notes: No language or inappropriate content, war, hunger, neglect, abuse and bullying, death, emotional themes

“It doesn’t take much to be kind. Just a bit of thought, and the courage to act on it”
— Kate Albus, A Place to Hang the Moon

Book Synopsis:

It is 1940 and William, 12, Edmund, 11, and Anna, 9, aren’t terribly upset by the death of the not-so-grandmotherly grandmother who has taken care of them since their parents died.

But the children do need a guardian, and in the dark days of World War II London, those are in short supply, especially if they hope to stay together. Could the mass wartime evacuation of children from London to the countryside be the answer?

It’s a preposterous plan, but off they go— keeping their predicament a secret, and hoping to be placed in a temporary home that ends up lasting forever. Moving from one billet to another, the children suffer the cruel trickery of foster brothers, the cold realities of outdoor toilets and the hollowness of empty stomachs.

But at least they find comfort in the village lending library— a cozy shelter from the harshness of everyday life, filled with favorite stories and the quiet company of Nora Müller, the kind librarian. The children wonder if Nora could be the family they’ve been searching for. . . . But the shadow of the war, and the unknown whereaouts of Nora’s German husband complicate matters. 

Book Review:

This book left me with that warm, fuzzy feeling all readers love when they finish a truly good story. In my opinion, it’s the perfect combination of happy and sad moments. The hardships the characters face make their joys feel all the more meaningful.

From the first page to the last, you’ll find yourself holding on to every word. You’ll feel like a friend to William, Edmund, and Anna. Crying, laughing, and smiling alongside them through every challenge and triumph.

Kate Albus draws you right into the world of the story. Her writing is heartwarming and wholesome, managing to describe the world around the children without overwhelming or slowing the pace. Her style makes the book enjoyable for readers of all ages. It’s perfect to curl up with on a quiet evening, but it also makes a wonderful read-aloud for younger siblings or children.

This story is full of life lessons. It reminds us of the importance of family, both the one we’re born into and the one we choose, and of the quiet resilience found in everyday life. It shows that kindness doesn’t cost much to give, and that patience and goodness can shine even in hard times. As William, Edmund, and Anna grow and mature through their struggles, you can’t help but feel inspired by their courage and gentle hearts. Even when things seem bleak, the story reminds us that everything works out as it should in the end. The journey, though sometimes painful, helps shape us into who we’re meant to be.

I tried hard to find a flaw in this book, but honestly, none came to mind. Of course, no book is perfect, but the fact that I couldn’t think of one says a lot, especially since I’m a pretty critical reader!

So next time you’re looking for a cozy, feel-good read that’s both powerful and full of heart, pick up “A Place to Hang the Moon”. This beautiful story may just change the way you think about good literature. William, Edmund, and Anna are waiting to meet you, and they’ll stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Happy Reading,

Ava

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