The Silver Sword

Story

After their parents are imprisoned by the Nazis, two Polish sisters set off on a journey through Europe, in search of their parents. On their way they are joined by an orphaned boy who is in possession of their mother’s letter opener – a silver sword. On their journey, they encounter many dangers, but they hold on to the sword as a symbol of their hope.

Why we chose it

A modern classic and a story that is as powerful and relevant today as it was in the aftermath of the second world war.

Where it came from

Ian Seraillier was an Oxford educated English teacher. The Silver Sword was first published in the US as Escape from Warsaw. Seraillier was a Quaker and was granted status as a conscientious objector during the war. He used his knowledge of the time to base the story on true events.

Where it went next

The Silver Sword was twice adapted for television in 1957 and 1971. It was described by the Oxford Companion to Children’s Literature as “one of the most remarkable books since 1945”. In 2011, The Silver Sword was one of the featured stories in the Imperial War Museum’s exhibition, “Once Upon a Wartime”.

Associated stories

The Silver Sword is one of an impressive number of children’s war stories. Others include the Once series by Morris Gleitzman, When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr, Goodnight Mr Tom by Michelle Magorian, Carrie’s War by Nina Bawden , Number the Stars by Lois Lowry and Hero on a Bicycle by Shirley Hughes. Each of these recounts true events or was inspired by real events.