“Anna’s War” is the debut young adult historical fiction novel by Australian author DJ Taylor. Set in German-occupied southern Netherlands during the final 18 months of World War II, the story follows 14-year-old Anna Jansen as she navigates a world fraught with danger, secrecy, and moral dilemmas.
When the Nazis begin arresting local men, Anna’s father hides in a secret cellar beneath their home, a fact unknown even to his youngest children. Anna’s life becomes more complicated when she meets Karl, a young German translator whose unexpected kindness and discretion—particularly in keeping her father’s hiding place secret from the ruthless Nazi officer Horst—leave her conflicted. As her feelings for Karl deepen, so do the risks, and one misstep could jeopardize everything her family has fought to protect.
The novel is inspired by the childhood memories of Taylor’s parents-in-law and blends real historical events with fictional elements. Reviewers have praised Taylor’s prose for capturing the fear and uncertainty faced by civilians in occupied territories, and for exploring themes of loyalty, trust, and the overarching love of family. The story is recommended for readers aged 12 and up and is available from all major book outlets (this is just one example).
DJ Taylor, a Queensland-based artist and writer, has a background as a primary school teacher and teacher-librarian. She enjoys long-distance walking, watercolor painting, and has written travel blogs about her treks across various continents. “Anna’s War” is her first novel.
