Carrie’s War

Story

Carrie and her brother Nick and their friend Albert, are living in a mining village in Wales to keep them safe from the dangers of bombing during World War Two. The story involves a feud, a missing will, a skull and a curse. Sorting out the mystery brings the children through the difficulties they face in leaving their own homes.

Why we chose it

A classic novel which explores young teenagers’ emotional responses to the disruption of their lives through historical events. It has been selected by other authors, including Jacqueline Wilson, as a tale of adventure while overcoming adversity and separation.

Where it came from

Nina Bawden (1925-2012) drew on her own childhood evacuation to write convincingly of Carrie’s experiences and her emotions journey.

Where it went next

The story has been reissued in many editions by a range of publishing companies. The most recent edition is published by Puffin as a Classic. The story has received numerous awards including a commendation in the Carnegie Medal (1973) and a Phoenix Award (1993) given by the Children’s Literature Association as a contemporary book that had not previously received a major award. The story was filmed (2003), formed the basis for two television adaptations (1974 and 2004) and turned into a play (2006/7 and 2009).

Associated stories

Nina Bawden wrote over 40 books; stories drawn from her imagination and her own experiences that offered insights into strength in response to emotional traumas. Her natural gift for telling stories enhanced her other books for children such as The Witch's Daughter and The Peppermit Pig and her adult fiction; Circles of Deceit was shortlisted for the Book Prize (1987).