The Sky Is Falling (Pearson novel) facts for kids
First edition cover
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| Author | Kit Pearson |
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| Cover artist | Lisa Jager Lapointe |
| Country | Canada |
| Language | English |
| Series | The Guests of War Trilogy |
| Genre | Young adult novel |
| Publisher | Penguin Canada |
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Publication date
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1989 |
| Pages | 246 pp |
| Followed by | Looking at the Moon |
The Sky is Falling is a young adult novel by Kit Pearson, published in 1989. It is the first book in The Guests of War series. This story follows two children, Norah and Gavin Stoakes. They are sent from England to Canada during World War II to keep them safe.
This novel won important awards. It received the Canadian Library Association Book of the Year Award for Children. It also won the Geoffrey Bilson Award for the best Canadian historical fiction book for young people.
Story Summary
Norah and Gavin Stoakes live a quiet life in an English village. But World War II changes everything. They must leave their home and go to Toronto, Canada. Norah is ten years old and very independent. She is upset about leaving and doesn't like having to look after her younger brother, Gavin. Gavin is five. He is confused and scared by all the changes.
When they arrive in Canada, Norah and Gavin go to live with Florence Ogilvie. Florence is a strict widow. Her shy daughter, Mary Ogilvie, lives with her. The Ogilvies really only wanted Gavin. But they agreed to take Norah too. Norah quickly notices they prefer Gavin over her.
Life in a New Home
Gavin soon settles into his new home. Florence spoils him and gives him lots of attention. But Norah finds it hard to adjust. She dislikes Florence and feels bored in their strict house. She also struggles at her new school. Norah starts wetting the bed, which makes her feel even worse. She constantly worries about her family back in England.
As weeks pass, Norah's dislike for Florence grows. She starts to make new friends. But her sadness increases when she learns she cannot go back to England soon. It will be much longer than she first thought.
A Big Decision
One day, Norah and Florence have an argument. Norah decides to run away. She plans to go back to England by herself. She leaves without Gavin at first. But then she realizes she cannot leave him alone with Florence in a new country. So, she goes back for him.
They only make it to the train station. There, Norah understands her plan is impossible. They return to the Ogilvies' house. Norah expects to be punished. Instead, Florence and Mary are very worried. Florence apologizes for not paying enough attention to Norah. She asks if they can start fresh. Norah agrees to try and live happily in Canada. Life slowly gets better. Norah begins to accept Canada as her temporary home until the war ends.
