Books like The lights go on again by Kit Pearson

The story follows Gavin and Norah, siblings who fled continental Europe to Canada in 1940 to escape the destruction of World War II. Five years later, with the war over and their family back in England, the children plan their return home. Gavin, ten, and Norah, fifteen, confront the doubts and apprehensions that come with leaving their new life behind. They must navigate the emotional turbulence of homesickness, separation anxiety, and the uncertainty of rejoining a family that has endured the war’s hardships. Set against the backdrop of post‑war Britain, the novel explores how children cope with the aftermath of conflict, the resilience needed to face change, and the bonds that keep families together. Amid the challenges of evacuation, fear, and emerging courage, Gavin and Norah’s journey offers a poignant look at the perspectives of young people during one of the 20th century’s most turbulent periods.

First publish date: 1993