Girl on the Run

by Nancy McDonald

It's 1933 in Berlin. The Nazis have seized power, and for thirteen-year-old Amelia Meyer life is changing in ways she never could have imagined. Her new teacher is picking on Jewish students, her friends are starting to shun her for not joining their Aryan youth group and her father is getting remarried. As tensions mount at home and school, Amelie embarks on a perilous journey--with nothing less than her whole future at stake.

166 pages, Paperback

Published September 9, 2021

About the author

Nancy McDonald began her career as a journalist working on television programmes, which include W5, Canada AM, and Marketplace before going on to become a sought-after freelance writer, penning everything from documentaries to live-action scripts to comic books.

Nancy lives in Stratford, Ontario. When she isn't busy writing novels for middle-grade readers, she revels in Shakespeare, treads the boards with the Perth County Players and works works part time at Fanfare Books, Stratford’s only independent bookseller.

Reviews

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nancy McDonald is a new-to-me author. I found Girl on the Run to be well researched, which is documented by her author’s note at the close of the book. I have read a number of Holocaust books and found this one to be like many others - a good way to get the human perspective on an historical event.
I found the book to be somewhat sad and depressing. But then life at that time was sad and depressing. At the start of the book life was good for Amelie and Gigi, in spite of having lost their mother years before. As the story progressed life became harder for the girls. Between Hitler and the new girlfriend, life became hard - especially since they were half Jewish (a fact Amelie learned only through eavesdropping). I had a hard time accepting that the father was so taken with his girlfriend that he couldn’t see what she was really like and what her motives were for the girls.
The book did have a couple potential areas of concern for some audiences. There are multiple instances of social drinking, including a time when one of the adult females in the book convinces the father to have some sherry in order to cut short his conversation with his daughters. There is also the inclusion of an actual artist from the time period whose work was deemed “degenerate” for its depictions of lesbian life.
Because of these concerns, I recommend that school librarians read the book and determine for themselves if they want it in their K-12 Christian school library. Even though it is well-written and factual, I probably would not put it in mine because of these concerns. It is written for the middle school grade levels.
I received a complimentary copy of Girl on the Run. This is my honest review.

[Stephanie Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Middle grade readers are whisked away to the past to experience an unsettling time in history as Hitler takes full control of Germany. For young Amelie and her younger sister, Gigi, life is becoming difficult at home as well in their homeland when they learn about their father's intentions to marry a woman with evil intentions. Outside of the family home, anti-Jewish sentiments are rising. Ameilie struggles to understand what is happening at school where her teachers are being replaced by military personnel, while her father is put in the difficult position of teaching a skewed version of science in his university classes. Amelie is forced to take matters into her own hands in order to save herself and her sister before it's too late.

Well-researched and perfectly-pitched at a middle-grade reading level, Girl on the Run draws readers into the historical setting with rich details and emotive descriptions. Amelie is a likeable, brave character that young readers will cheer for as she navigates her changing homeland. The Author's Notes at the back of the book are well-worth a read for fascinating facts and further details on the evolving landscape in 1930s Germany. In addition, a selection of included questions are a wonderful tool for continuing the discussion about the book and World War 2.

A sincere thank you to the author and publisher for a copy of the book. I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

GIRL ON THE RUN is a middle grade book that is written by Nancy McDonald. My 11 year old son and I read this together and we both really enjoyed it. We have read a few other of this author's work and have loved the historical detail she puts into them.
In this story we meet, Amelie Meyer. She is thirteen years old and she is watching her world change all around her. She is facing pressure to join an pro-white, anti Jewish group and she watches as her Jewish classmates are treated differently then everyone else. Her father has married a woman who is not a fan of children and is not very kind. The author does a great job introducing middle grade readers to the change in Germany during this time period.
There are some great discussion questions at the end. My 11 year old loves everything WWII. It really has you think about what you read. I cannot wait until the next book, The Doktor's Daughter.
Thank you to the author, publisher and IRead Book Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Tee-Hee Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW

After about the first twenty pages, I really got hooked on this one. I loved how the book started almost pre-nazi takeover (but not quite. It was more like the beginning of it), and then there’s both subtle and obvious changes that demonstrate the progression of the take over. This book will have you so frustrated and sad, and being out strong emotions, but also has some good parts too that are relatable to teenagers and the process of coming of age.

Eva is a character that may surprise you, but not in a good way. She was my least favorite and I had always been suspicious of her and wondering what she would do next. Some of the things I saw coming, others I did not.

I rooted for the children and hoped they would make the escape successfully. The tension and stress were real, which had me staying up to finish the book.

I cannot wait to read the sequel–The Doktor’s Daughter–to find out what happens next!

Overall, I rate this book:

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 Stars

[Dorothy Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book for my 9 year old grand daughter, but since its subject matter deals with Nazi Germany I first read it to check whether she would be ready for it. McDonald has gently introduced historical information Clara will one day need to learn in a gentle but charming manner. I reread it to make note of any German terms my Clara might not know, and was utterly delighted even on the second reading. I was thrilled to follow young Amelie whose father remarries, and whose new stepmother planned to expose her Jewish heritage to the Nazis. This is a great book to subtly introduce young readers to the second world war, and to the history of antisemitism, especially by the Nazis. Amelie is a bright quick thinking and courageous young woman, a role model for both boys and girls. I look forward to discussing this book with Clara.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelie and Gigi love with their father in Germany. Their mother has passed away and the girls are raised by Nanny, a cook, and their loving father. When their father meets Eva and the family changes forever. This is a story set when Jews were just beginning to be seen as an inferior race and actions were taken to remove them from society.

Amelie is the storyteller and I enjoyed hearing the story from her POV. She does not believe in what is happening and must save herself and her sister. At the end of the book the author shares what is history and what was fiction along with discussion questions. I think this is a great book for children around the age of 13 because that is Amelie’s age but also a great book for anyone interested in WWII historical fiction.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Girl on the Run is a historical novel written for the younger generation to enjoy but as a older person I also enjoyed reading it, so I think any age group will love it. Amelia and her younger sister Gigi live with there father as there mother has recently passed away. Amelia is struggling with her father getting remarried and her new teacher is picking on Jewish students and her friends are turning against her for not joining the Aryan youth group. The knowledge and research that has gone into this book is skillfully woven throughout and makes for a educational read. Gigi was my favourite character as I loved her innocence and spark. The story is a sad but strong tale of life during the war.

[Alison McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nancy McDonald has done a wonderful job of weaving multiple plots together in this coming-of-age novel. Girl on the Run is an exciting tale of a young heroine Amelie whose life is quickly changing for the worse. She is faced with a new step-mother who is both conniving and cruel, and the rise of Nazi Germany and the changes that are quickly making Berlin both unrecognizable and unbearable. Amelie is a thoughtful character who you quickly become invested in, and who will have you cheering alongside, while she is forced to skillfully navigate her home life and how she fits into the new Berlin.

[Jokelee Vanderkop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Girl on the Run by Nancy McDonald is an engaging read and highly suited for young people. Its historical context in 1933 Berlin outlines the insidious takeover of Nazism while juxtaposing the courage of 13 year old Amélie. After losing her mother to cancer, Amélie provides emotional support to her 6 year old sister Gigi. A new stepmother, who is not fond of children, unleashes a chain of events that forces Amélie to grow up quickly. Her courage and quick wit is a testament to what children are capable of and what they can rise to. This would be a great book to have in the school system.

[Linda Sims · Rating 4 out of 5]

McDonald's books just keep getting better. This latest has a new heroine, Amelie, who faces the growing cruelties of Nazi Germany, a conniving new stepmother, and dangers that have her fleeing her home. McDonald has written a page-turner, with lots of tension and intrigue. But she also weaves in many warm and engaging scenes, and characters you are soon rooting for. And she brings the history of pre-WWII Germany to light in an age-appropriate way. In all, an exciting, appealing book for young readers

[T R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can say from personal experience that Girl on the Run, as well as Nancy McDonald’s previous two books though written with a young readership in mind, is an enjoyable read for adults as well. Nancy’s prose is page-turning and poignant, both spellbinding and believable. This book will linger in memory long after you have read it, like the memory of your first kiss. In these difficult times, we all need a little uplifting which Girl on the Run most definitely provides.
Thomas R Verny MD, author The Embodied Mind

[Cheryl Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished reading this with thoughts of giving it as a Christmas present to a favourite young person.. A great fast paced adventure with a strong and likeable heroine that also presents lots of opportunity for its young audience to learn about life in Berlin as Hitler gains power. The author even includes questions for her readers to take them further into the characters and era. Thoroughly enjoyed it myself !

[CeeCee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing! It is so exiting and and thrilling, at the start of it I was like "it is good" but now I have finished it I am like "this book is so amazing!!" If I was a teacher teaching my students about the world war I would read them this book. I would highly recommend it! I am 11 years old, I would recommend anyone 9+ to read it, me and my dad read it and we both liked it! I can not wait for the sequel!

[Kathryn Fleming]

Nancy McDonald is a masterful storyteller. In Girl on the Run, she has created an engaging novel blending history and intrigue. Amelie is confronted with the restrictions and persecution faced by Jewish citizens in 1933 Berlin.

I highly recommend this novel for young readers interested in history and who enjoy suspenseful stories with multiple complications.

[Janis Gougeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Congratulations, Nancy. Another absolute thrilling page turner. My 13 year old granddaughter was excited to receive Girl on the Run for her birthday since she enjoyed the previous two books, Boy from Berlin and One Boy's War. This from a girl who, a year ago, said that she didn't like history. I agree with a previous reviewer that it is a gentle introduction to the horrors of WWII.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the pleasure of reading previous books written by the talented author, Nancy McDonald. I jumped at the chance to read her release, Girl on the Run. It is just what I would have expected from her writing and was far from being disappointed. Even though the book is only around one hundred and fifty pages, it is full of adventure and action. I admired the bravery and courage of the main character, thirteen year old Amelia Mayer. She is thrown into the new world of what is expected of her and what she believes is right. I wanted to keep reading to find out what choices she will make. It was quite the journey to go with her in 1930s era of Nazi run Berlin. The vivid details of the times made me feel as though I was right there seeing the events unfold in real time. I thought it was great.
Girl on the Run will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for readers and fans of historical fiction. I believe they will not be disappointed and enjoy it as much as me. I will be on the look out for more books by Nancy McDonald to see where else she takes her characters to next.
I received a paperback copy of Girl on the Run from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Sally Reardon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast-pace and dramatic entry into the world of Berlin 1933. Amelie, 13 years old, learns of her Jewish identity at a time when a mere whisper of her heritage could mean disaster, even death, for her and her sister. An exciting read and, for any young adult, the easiest way to absorb history.

[Liesabeth A · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter (age 11) and I both thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful read. We found the characters engaging and relatable; and, felt that the subject matter (although difficult) was dealt with head on in a compelling manner.
We look forward to sharing other titles together from this lovely author.

[Erin Strathdee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all of Nancy’s books! They are very easy to read, they keep my attention the entire time and I couldn’t put down Girl on the run! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

[Bill · Rating 5 out of 5]

An insightful tale of a young Jewish girl growing up in 1930s Berlin that is both a pleasure to read and as relevant as today’s headlines. Highly recommended!

[Trilby Kent · Rating 5 out of 5]

9 year-old daughter hoovered this up, as she did "Boy From Berlin". Another top page-turner from Nancy McDonald!

[Adrienne Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! I couldn’t put it down!

[Patrizia Forigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Girl on the Run! Nancy McDonald's best book yet and I can't wait for the sequel. An inspiring work of historical fiction filled with suspense, anticipation, action and great admiration for the main character, Amelie. Although targeted at middle schoolers, Girl on the Run is sure to delight readers of all ages. My 80 year old mother read Girl on the run and thoroughly enjoyed it! It reminded her of growing up in Europe in the early 40s. A must read and I highly recommend!

[Maggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nancy McDonald has done it again, skilfully combining an exciting adventure story for young readers with an important 20th Century history lesson. Her heroine, Amelie, confronts the villainies of the Nazi regime with impressive ingenuity and calm. The book is a riveting page-turner. No reader will come away disappointed. Highly recommended.

[Valorie Dalton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the WWII era just as Hitler and the Nazi party rise to power in Germany, Amelie and her little sister Gigi live with their widower father, a professor of biology. There are whispers of the Nazi party’s anti-Semitic policies, which begins as mere rumors that many don’t take seriously. Life rolls on. Amelie and Gigi are stunned when their father meets a woman and begins to date, which quickly rolls to marriage. Their wicked stepmother Eva has awful plans for the two girls when a secret of their identity is revealed. A secret that puts them in danger of the rising Nazi party. Their father is blind to the awful ways of the woman he married, which is unfortunate for the two girls who must try to find safety and stability. The story is rich in historical detail, all through the lens of a young, innocent girl who really can’t conceive of her world changing into something as malevolent as the Nazi party make it. She has to navigate this changing world with her own problems, finding not only her father falling prey but also her friends. This middle-grade book is a great read for teenagers and adults who want something quick but immersive. As a history teacher, it would be a perfect addition to a classroom bookshelf, as well.