The Books

Code Name Kingfisher

by Liz Kessler

ISBN: 9781398512511

Set during World War II, primarily in Amsterdam, two Jewish sisters, Mila and Hannie, are given new identities and sent to live with another family to escape Nazi persecution. Hannie, determined to fight back, joins the Dutch resistance and becomes an undercover agent known as "Code Name Kingfisher". The novel explores themes of bravery, sisterhood, and defiance as the sisters navigate the dangers of wartime Holland, with Mila also facing challenges in her new life.

Reviews

Maia - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really enjoyed reading Codename Kingfisher. It highlighted the unknown struggles of Holland in 1942. I loved how the story of Mila and Liv intertwined and had an emotional connection. I personally would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading authors like Tom Palmer.

Anveesha - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really liked this especially the way it was written, With different characters saying their view at different points in the story. This is one of my favourite books I have ever read.

Sonam - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

This was my favourite book so far. I feel it was a thrilling book with many mysteries and twists. I loved the mix of old and new with one character set in the Second World War and the other set in the present day. I would not usually read history books, but this has inspired me to read more of these historical novels.

Dina - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really enjoyed this book It was powerful and Mila was such a strong character. The book was SOOO good it makes made me cry at the end which shows how into the book I was. Thank you so much for creating a great book!

Taqwa - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I felt really touched by the concept and meaning of this brilliant story. In my opinion, this story is both educational and a perfect secondary school drama. I really loved how the narrators were both Liv and Mila (and also a little bit of Hannie's wonderful letters!). This book is the perfect mix of fact and fiction. Very highly recommended.

Hollie - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

Really good book! I really like how its a mix of the olden days and this day and age. Its really thrilling. My favourite book I have read in a long time!

Elsie - Nottingham Girls High School - 2026

I really enjoyed this book. I was hooked in from start to finish. This is a fantastic book about bravery. I like the way that the diary entries swap between Hannie, Mila, Liv and the others. Overall, this is an amazing book.