Plot outline
The novel is set on a remote island off the coast of Norway during World War II. It follows the story of 14-year-old Ingeborg who must survive during a long dark winter after her aunt dies and the Nazis take over the island.Critical reception
In a review of the book in ''The Canberra Times'' the reviewer stated: "This distinguished piece of writing is a tremendously individual and quite moving story...There is some overwriting and action occasionally flags, but characterisation, originality and the breadth of the story makes it a most satisfying piece of work. Victor Ambrus has provided some delightful illustrations that in style and character are a true extension of the text." ''Kirkus Reviews'' noted: "The image evoked in the restrictively literary course of Ingeborg's sometimes faltering and always dense story suggests Anne Frank's diary written into a Bartos-Hoppner Siberian wilderness; though destined for only limited response it is an image wrought of violent silence with a rare and relentless grip."See also
*References
Australian children's novels 1968 novels Children's historical novels Novels set during World War II Novels set in Norway Novels set on islands CBCA Children's Book of the Year Award-winning works 1968 children's books 1968 debut novels Children's books set during World War II Children's books set in Norway Children's books set on islands {{1960s-WWII-novel-stub