Award-winning and bestselling Stroud author Jamila Gavin MBE (Coram Boy, The Wheel of Surya) returns with a powerful new historical novel inspired by the remarkable true story of Khudadad Khan, the first Indian soldier to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
Told through four intertwining perspectives — Lotte, a Belgian farm girl; Ernst, a disillusioned German cavalry soldier; Khudadad Khan, the Indian gunner fighting with the British Army; and the walnut tree that shelters them all — this is an epic story of resilience, sacrifice, and humanity at a time of unimaginable conflict.
Written with Jamila Gavin’s trademark compassion and narrative power, the novel brings a forgotten hero and the shared suffering of ordinary people in war vividly to life for readers aged 9–12.
- A moving and timely novel exploring the First World War from multiple perspectives.
- Based on the true story of Khudadad Khan VC, whose bravery changed history.
- Perfect for schools and young readers studying WWI, history, or themes of courage and friendship.
- By Jamila Gavin, one of the UK’s most celebrated children’s authors and winner of the Whitbread Children’s Book Award.
Praise for Jamila Gavin
“Jamila Gavin is one of our greatest writers.” – S.F. Said
“A thoughtful, engrossing new novel … Gavin draws her characters with such care and detail.” – The Times on Never Forget You
“An exceptionally well-told and compelling account of friendship, courage and love.” – The Sunday Times on Never Forget You
About the Author
Jamila Gavin MBE was born in Mussoorie, India, in the foothills of the Himalayas. With an Indian father and English mother, she grew up between two rich cultures that shaped her life and writing. After moving to England aged 11, she studied music and worked at the BBC before becoming one of the UK’s most acclaimed children’s writers. Her bestselling works include Coram Boy, adapted for the National Theatre and Broadway, and the Surya trilogy.
