A wartime Christmas, a missing dad, and a girl who refuses to let the war win.
Who drives the story
A nine-year-old with pigtails, big plans, and a father overseas. She wants to be important and helpful in a war that keeps making her wait, and she learns that hoping is a job too.
A war guest from London staying with Susan's family, sent to escape the bombing while her parents remain in England. Homesick and proper, she shows Molly what real worry looks like and becomes her closest friend.
Molly's mother, who has taken a job outside the home for the war effort while her doctor husband serves in England. Tired and stretched, she holds the household together with grit.
Molly's best friend, partner in schemes and school shows. Susan's family takes in Emily, and their squabbles and loyalties give Molly her first lessons in friendship management.
Molly's father, a doctor serving with the U.S. Army in England. His absence shapes every page.
How they are connected
A war guest from London staying with Susan's family, sent to escape the bombing while her parents remain in England.
Homesick and proper, she shows Molly what real worry looks like and becomes her closest friend.
Molly's mother, who has taken a job outside the home for the war effort while her doctor husband serves in England.
Molly's best friend, partner in schemes and school shows.
Dad (Dr. McIntire)Molly McIntire
Molly's father, a doctor serving with the U.
Go deeper
The Home Front · Waiting as Bravery · Friendship Across Difference · Family Reshaped by War
Themes explainedThe full story act by act, the ending explained and a quick quiz.
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