Wave Me Goodbye

by Jacqueline Wilson
Wave Me Goodbye cover
Good Books rating 4.44
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £7.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1720
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781448198061
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2017-05-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

In September 1939, as the Second World War breaks out, ten-year-old Shirley is sent away on a train with no destination in mind, only told she's going on a 'little holiday'. She finds herself in the countryside with two boys from London, lodged in the strange, half-empty Red House with the reclusive Mrs Waverley. This moving story by award-winning author Jacqueline Wilson explores themes of friendship and bravery against the backdrop of the worst conflict the world has ever known. The novel is praised for its heart-warming narrative and detailed portrayal of life during the Second World War, making it a captivating read for young audiences. /n/n 'Wave Me Goodbye' is a beautiful tale that handles the balance of big worries, like the war, with the smaller details of being separated from family while life still goes on. It's a story that will resonate with readers, offering a glimpse into the lives of children during wartime and the bonds they form in the face of adversity. The novel is celebrated for its emotional depth and historical accuracy, making it a standout in children's literature.

Reviews
Books for Keeps · 2025-10-08
solid 4.00

The book is a solid addition to Jacqueline Wilson's work, despite minor flaws. It effectively captures the emotional turmoil of a child during wartime.

Books for Keeps acknowledges that while Wave Me Goodbye has some minor flaws, it remains a valuable addition to Jacqueline Wilson's extensive body of work. The reviewer appreciates how the book delves into the emotional complexities faced by a young girl during the tumultuous times of World War II. They highlight the author's ability to create a narrative that resonates with both children and adults, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also notes that the story's emotional depth and historical context make it a worthy read.

Quick quotes

    Despite the minor flaws, this book is a worthy addition to Wilson's ever-growing body of work.

    It effectively captures the emotional turmoil of a child during wartime.

    The book's historical context and emotional depth make it a compelling read.

The Happy Book Blog · Lyndsey · 2019-04-11
fantastic 4.75

The book is a fantastic read that evokes a roller-coaster of emotions, making it highly recommended.

Lyndsey from The Happy Book Blog highly recommends Wave Me Goodbye, describing it as a fantastic book that takes readers on an emotional journey. They appreciate the author's ability to create a story that is both sweet and deep, appealing to both children and adults. Lyndsey notes that the book's emotional depth and engaging narrative make it a standout read. They particularly enjoyed the way the story captures the confusion and loneliness experienced by a child during wartime, making it a poignant and memorable experience.

Quick quotes

    I would highly recommend this fantastic book.

    I experienced a roller-coaster of emotions.

    All in all a very pleasant read.

The Bookynista · 2018-08-26
great 4.50

The book is sweet enough for children and deep enough for adults. Jacqueline Wilson's writing is captivating.

The reviewer praises the book for its dual appeal to both children and adults. They highlight Jacqueline Wilson's skillful storytelling, which keeps readers engaged throughout. The narrative is both heartwarming and profound, making it a versatile read that can be enjoyed by a wide audience. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the emotional resonance of the story, making it a standout in Wilson's body of work.

Quick quotes

    This book is great. It's sweet enough for children and equally deep for adults.

    Jacqueline Wilson sure has a way with words that could keep you captivated.

    The narrative is both heartwarming and profound.

Booksellers NZ · 2017-06-20
delightful 4.50

The story is a great addition to literature about the Blitz and its aftermath, pleasing many readers with its emotional and historical depth.

Booksellers NZ finds Wave Me Goodbye to be a delightful addition to the books written about the Blitz and its repercussions. The reviewer praises the book for its ability to evoke a range of emotions and its rich historical context. They believe it will appeal to a wide audience, particularly those interested in historical fiction and the experiences of children during wartime. The reviewer also highlights the book's emotional resonance, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    It's a story which will please many readers, and is a great addition to the books written about the Blitz and its repercussions.

    Highly recommended for its emotional and historical depth.

    The book's emotional resonance makes it a memorable read.

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