Book Review: Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein

This is a World War II book, set in a period that doesn't seem to run out of

 material for stories that touch us in a deep way.  Tough, smart women are the heroes of this novel, young women using their considerable talents and skills to serve their country in a time of war. I felt pulled into this story because I liked these characters so much that I felt empowered just reading about them.  Maddie is a skilled pilot and mechanic, not the most socially adept, but ethical and loyal. Queenie is smooth and cultured and speaks German fluently and so she is quickly chosen to work in intelligence.  These two young women are drawn to each other and become loyal friends. As Queenie says, they make a "sensational team".  The first half of the book is narrated by Queenie and the second half by Maddie. We find out at the beginning that Queenie has been captured by the Germans in France and is narrating her story to her captors.  As her story unfolds, we find out more and more about how she came to be captured.  We also learn of the strength of her friendship with Maddie.  If you are looking for romance, you won't find it in this book.  Instead, it's a story of friendship and loyalty between powerful women. Read Code Name Verity and you'll feel inspired to tackle challenges in your life.