Eighth-grader Liv has plenty on her mind. Her best friend is pulling away, a group of girls has started bullying her, and her beloved Bubbe's memory is fading. While helping clean out Bubbe's house for a family history assignment, Liv uncovers clues to a chapter of her grandmother's past that has remained hidden for decades. Readers are transported to Nazi-occupied Holland, where Jewish sisters Mila and Hannie are forced into hiding. As Mila struggles to survive, Hannie joins the Dutch Resistance, risking everything to rescue Jewish children. Learning about her family's extraordinary past gives Liv the courage to face challenges in her own life.
The PJ Our Way Book Selection Committee is always looking for historical fiction that's authentic, emotionally resonant, and impossible to put down. Code Name Kingfisher combines a compelling Holocaust story with universal middle-grade themes like friendship, family, and finding your courage. We especially appreciated its powerful portrayal of Jewish resistance, its seamless dual timeline, and the reminder that even small acts of bravery can change lives.
As one PJ Our Way reader noted, “I think the author did a great job describing the scenes and adding detail. It felt like I was actually there and experiencing everything that was happening. I could feel the emotions of the characters and I think using different perspectives made everything better.”
This book is perfect for fans of Broken Strings, Hitler’s Canary, and Once.
October 6, 2026