July is upon us! You might be going on a trip or perhaps you have a couple of days off at home (I mean, these COVID-19 times are strange…).
Whether you are headed on vacation or having a staycation, prepare for some hardcore gushing as I present to you: my favorite reads of time gone by!
These books were my go-to escapes when I was a kid/teen. They’re well-written, with awesome settings and dynamic characters. I savored every word and truly sunk into their worlds, and I really, really want to share my love for these books:
Winter in Wartime by Jan Terlouw
This book takes place during World War II, when Nazi Germany occupied the Netherlands. It’s a gripping and fast-paced adventure story about a 15-year-old boy who goes on a risky mission to care for a wounded British fighter pilot. The story is based on the author’s own childhood and it’s one of my favorite Dutch historical YA books: there’s danger and heartache and mystery, but also sharp humor and startling insights into life during wartime. The book became a movie in 2008 – hugely successful in the Netherlands, out-grossing competing films like Twilight and The Dark Knight.
Strong princesses! Powerful witches! Black magic! YES!
Juniper is a medieval princess who chooses to learn about herbs, healing, and nature from her strange and difficult godmother. As her training comes to an end, she discovers that her power-hungry aunt is using black magic to seize the throne. Juniper must use her as-yet-untested powers to stop her, before the kingdom is destroyed. Oh, how I loved, loved, loved this amazing YA fantasy story! It was one of the first fantasy books I ever read and it was a magical experience for me!
The Letter for the King by Tonke Dragt
The Letter for the King is a book by Dutch writer Tonke Dragt and was first published in 1962. It’s listed as one of the best Dutch YA books ever and tells the thrilling story a 16-year-old boy who battles against evil. Set in a world filled with dark forests, treacherous rivers, sinister castles, and strange cities, Tiuri must deliver a secret letter to King Unauwen across the Great Mountains – the fate of the kingdom depends on it!
It’s an old-school, epic tale of chivalry, courage, and the meaning of true friendship. Oh, and you can do anything you set your mind to.
In 2020, Netflix released a six-episode series based on the book.
Crusade in Jeans by Thea Beckman
Written in 1973, this is a historical novel from one of my favorite Dutch authors. The story follows 15-year-old Dolf Wega, who volunteers for an experiment with a time machine. He ends up in 1212, where he saves the life of Leonardo Fibonacci da Pisa, without realizing who he is, and teaches him Arabic numerals.
Together, they join a Children’s Crusade to Jerusalem and so begins a monumental journey south, across the Alps towards Genoa and the sea. With the help of Dolf’s modern-day knowledge, they save the children from horrible disasters.
I do not have the words to adequately describe how much I loved this book as a kid. Yes, it’s old-fashioned and unbelievable, but it’s also an exciting and occasionally grim adventure novel.
A film version was released in 2006, starring a young Johnny Flynn.
The Tillerman Cycle by Cynthia Voigt
This critically acclaimed and Newbery Award-winning series from bestselling author Cynthia Voigt follows the lives of the Tillerman children along with their family and friends, shining a glaring light on the realities of a seemingly foreign world that lies in our own backyards. Even as a kid, I felt the authenticity and rawness of the Tillerman books. They may not have fast-paced, thrilling plot lines, but the characters are so real. For me, the books had this irresistible, dark, brooding vibe – and I loved it.
What are your favorite vacation reads from childhood?