Always Book Review -WW2 Story for Young Readers

What is Always by Morris Gleitzman About?

Always by Morris Gleitzman is the final book in the Once series, following Felix later in life as he reflects on survival, memory and the lasting legacy of World War 2 and the Holocaust. Always focuses more on post-war identity and emotional closure rather than survival during wartime.

Discover our Review and Summary of Always by Morris Gleitzman

Sometimes, things don’t turn out the way you want them to. People you thought could become your friends can prove you wrong. A vicious gang has tracked you down, and now you are running for your life. But no matter what you go through, a true friend always makes things better.

Wassim is a 10-year-old boy who lives in Eastern Europe and has a happy family, but he  lives in a terribly racist and dangerous community. Wassim is unaware of these dangers until a fatal accident occurs one night, leaving him with only his Uncle to face the world. Wassim and his uncle are constantly being watched by the Iron Weasels, a racist and violent group. When Wassim finds out about Felix Salinger, a worldwide-known figure connected to the Holocaust, he feels a ray of hope that Felix could help him stop the Iron Weasels before they get to him and his uncle again.

 Meanwhile, all the way in Australia, Felix is in danger and receives a strange letter from an unexpected person, requesting his immediate attention. When Wassim and Felix’s paths cross, they find guidance and support in each other. However, Wassim discovers an incredible secret that could change his future. Will Felix and Wassim be able to get to this secret in time, or will they leave their fate in the hands of their enemies?

My favourite character in this book is Wassim’s uncle because of his bravery and how much he cares for Wassim. Another reason I like him is because of his fighting skills and his ability to defend himself.

My favourite part in the book is when Felix and Wassim meet and form a friendship, as this shows that age differences don’t matter. Things always seem better when you have a friend.

Is Always Worth Reading?

I loved reading this book. The storyline and the introduction to the new character were great. However, I didn’t feel that it gave a proper ending to Felix’s story. I think the book could have had a stronger ending, as it didn’t fully do justice to the conclusion of the Once series. For these reasons, Always gets 4 out of 5 stars rating from me.

I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about friendship, suspense, and action.

If you love Always, read the full series: Once | Then | Now | After | Soon | Maybe | Always. Each book follows Felix at different stages of his life.

If you enjoy emotional World War stories, you may also like:

Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson, which explores the Blitz from a child’s perspective.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, which tells the story of a young girl during World War II.

Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo, which follows a young soldier reflecting on love, family & harsh realities of World War I.

Letters from the Lighthouse by Emma Carroll, a historical mystery book during London Blitz.

The Line They Drew Through Us by Hiba Noor Khan, a powerful and emotional story set during the Partition of India.

The Breadwinner Series by Deborah Ellis- following Parvana and Shauzia’s lives in Afghanistan.: The Breadwinner, Parvana’s Journey, Mud City, My Name is Parvana and One More Mountain.

Ada’s story of strength, courage and belonging by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, The War That Saved My Life, The War I Finally Won