62 pages 2 hours read

Andrew Fukuda

This Light Between Us: A Novel of World War II

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2020

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In the epistolary novel This Light Between Us by Andrew Fukuda, Japanese American boy Alex Maki from Bainbridge Island, Washington, and Jewish girl Charlie Lévy from Paris, France, form a deep friendship through letters exchanged before and during World War II, as they endure the persecution faced by their communities, maintaining their bond across time, distance, and social barriers. Sensitive topics include depictions of wartime violence, genocide, and racial slurs.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

This Light Between Us by Andrew Fukuda receives praise for its poignant depiction of friendship amid WWII's tumultuous backdrop. Critics highlight the emotional depth and historical richness. However, some note occasional predictability and uneven pacing. Overall, it's lauded for its compelling narrative and strong character development.

Who should read this

Who Should Read This Light Between Us?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with emotional depth and themes of friendship amidst the backdrop of WWII will find This Light Between Us by Andrew Fukuda compelling. Comparable to The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, it's ideal for fans of poignant, character-driven narratives.

RecommendedReading Age

12-18years

Lexile Level

690L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Topics

Military / War

History: World

Period

WWII / World War II

Holocaust

Themes

Relationships: Friendship

Society: War

Life/Time: Coming of Age