International Rights

The War Below

  • ISBN 9781338233025, Hardcover
  • ISBN 9781443124379, Paperback
  • 256 Pages | Ages 8 to 12

This companion novel to the acclaimed Making Bombs for Hitler explores the underground Ukrainian resistance in the fight against Hitler.

This book was previously published under the title Underground Soldier.

The Nazis took Luka from his home in Ukraine and forced him into a labour camp. Now, Luka has smuggled himself out — even thoughbut he has left behind his dearest friend, Lida. Someday, he vows, he’ll find her again.

But first, he must survive.

Racing through the mountains, Luka evades capture by both Nazis and Soviet agents. When he meets the underground Ukrainian Insurgent Army, he knows that is where he belongs: fighting Nazis and Soviets alike. But the desperate rescues and guerilla raids put Luka back in the line of fire. Can he persevere long enough to find Lida again, or to make it back home where his father must be waiting for him?

Inspired by true stories, this novel is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of war.

Rights Sold

  • English (Australia/NZ)
  • English (US)
  • French (N. Amer.)
  • Ukrainian

Selling Points

  • Historical topics of interest to today’s readers
  • Skrypuch is an acclaimed author of award-winning historical fiction
  • There are few books for young readers about these little-known events of WWII
  • Author is a strong self-promoter on social media, in schools, bookstores and libraries

Awards

  • Short-listed, Kobzar Literary Award, 2016
  • Short-listed, Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People, 2015
  • Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens, Canadian Children's Book Centre, 2015
  • Commended, Resource Links, Best of the Year, 2014