Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves

by L.M. Elliott

Author L. M. Elliott captures life on the U.S. home front during World War II, weaving a portrait of a family reeling from loss and the voyage of fighting for what matters.

Days after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Hitler declared war on the U.S., unleashing U-boat submarines to attack American ships. Suddenly, the waves outside Louisa June's farm aren't for eel-fishing or marveling at wild swans or learning to skull her family's boat--they're dangerous, swarming with hidden enemies.

Her oldest brothers' ships risk coming face-to-face with U-boats. Her sister leaves home to weld Liberty Boat hulls. And then her daddy, a tugboat captain, and her dearest brother, Butler, are caught in the crossfire.

Her mama has always swum in a sea of melancholy, but now she really needs Louisa June to find moments of beauty or inspiration to buoy her. Like sunshine-yellow daffodils, good books, or news accounts of daring rescues of torpedoed passengers.

Determined to help her Mama and aching to combat Nazis herself, Louisa June turns to her quirky friend Emmett and the indomitable Cousin Belle, who has her own war stories--and a herd of cats--to share. In the end, after a perilous sail, Louisa June learns the greatest lifeline is love.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Middle Grade, World War II, Historical, Childrens, Mental Health, War

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2022

About the author

L. M. Elliott was an award-winning magazine journalist for 20 years before becoming a New York Times bestselling author of historical and biographical novels. Three-time finalist for the National Magazine Award and winner of multiple Dateline Awards, Elliott focused primarily on women's issues. Her groundbreaking profile of a domestic violence survivor, wife of a high-level federal government appointee, was one of the first to discuss "white-collar" violence against women and the psychological/emotional control intrinsic to the abuse. Elliott’s extensive reporting experience on such topics informed and enriched the themes and characters of TRUTH, LIES, AND THE QUESTIONS IN BETWEEN. It is her third docudrama-novel exploring a fraught political era and the dangers of disinformation, unchecked power, hate-rhetoric, and censorship.

Her 14 novels cover a variety of era--–the Cold War, WWII, the Great Depression, American Revolution, and the Italian Renaissance–--and are for a variety of readerships, ages middle grade to adult. Her works have been honored with the Scott O'Dell, VLA Cardinal Cup, and Grateful American prizes for historical fiction; been named NCSS/CBC Notables, Bank Street College of Education Bests, Kirkus Bests, Capitol Choices, and to the TXLA Tayshas HS Reading Lists; as well as named finalists for state awards in VA, MD, PA, UT, ME, VT, KS, IA, and SC.

She holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a MA in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill.

Reviews

[Stephanie Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a wonderful book! I hope my review will do it justice, because I highly recommend it to all readers of historical fiction!
So many little-known facts about WW2 were presented in this novel, due to the author’s meticulous research.
Did you know that:
Four days after Pearl Harbor was attacked, Germany unleashed U-boat submarines to the East Coast?
By March 1942, these subs were sinking an average of one ship per day?
Civilian mariners joined The Corsair Fleet; trawlers and fishing boats were outfitted with secure radios to report anything suspicious to the Naval Operating Base in Norfolk, Virginia?
These are just a few facts to learn among many.
The heart of this book is the story of Louisa June’s family and their lives on the homefront. So much love, determination, and patriotism shown by this family, even when facing unimaginable tragedy…

Perhaps because the setting was in Virginia, this entire book reminded me of episodes of “The Waltons”, one of my very favorite shows. The details of war time in a small community really brought this novel to life!
Thank you, L.M. Elliot, for another wonderful work of historic fiction!

[TL *Humaning the Best She Can* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Libby app, Overdrive was better
----

Wonderful story of how war affects civilians/family members in the coast, and the German u-boats causing havoc and grief.. and how to go on in while mourning.

I like how the book mentions and touches on depression in a non judgmental way (especially given the time period).

I admired Louisa's spirit, she did the best she could to cheer her family up and take care of them, despite being sad/scared l/unsure of what would happen next.

A few parts had me tearing up so have the tissues ready 😢 🤧.

Cousin Belle: she was amazing! Strong, funny, kind, headstrong. Can I adopt her?
What we learn of her backstory, impressive lady 👏 Would love to see her have her own book of her life story (crossing fingers 🤞)

Would recommend for younger and older readers l... listen to the author's note at end for some more History :).

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

STUNNING WWII MG STORY

LOUISA JUNE AND THE NAZIS IN THE WAVES occurs off the American East Coast in 1942, when Nazi U-boats began to sink Allied ships heading to England. Made me feel the acute pain of losing loved ones as well as the grave uncertainty of the time.

I loved character Louisa June, so brave as she faces tragedy and the mental illness of her mother. Poignant and inspiring. Out March 22.

Thanks for the ARC to author L.M. Elliott, HarperCollins Children's Books, and NetGalley. Opinions are mine.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

STUNNING WWII MG STORY

LOUISA JUNE AND THE NAZIS IN THE WAVES occurs off the American East Coast in 1942, when Nazi U-boats began to sink Allied ships heading to England. Made me feel the acute pain of losing loved ones as well as the grave uncertainty of the time.

I loved character Louisa June, so brave as she faces tragedy and the mental illness of her mother, and finds a supportive tribe that helps her carry on with courage. Poignant and inspiring. Out March 22.

Thanks for the ARC to author L.M. Elliott, HarperCollins Children's Books, and NetGalley. Opinions are mine.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great middle grade historical fiction story that focused on the war efforts of everyday families living on the East Coast of America - particularly those who were involved in the shipping/boating industry and had to deal with U-boat attacks after Pearl Harbor. Rich in historical details and lots heavy topics like mental health, depression, grief over the loss of loved ones. I didn't love the narration of the audiobook - the narrator was a little too over the top/dramatic for my tastes (but it might appeal to younger audiences more). Would definitely recommend!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a strong example of historical fiction and I highly recommend you read the author's note at the end of this story too. I am looking forward to talking with colleagues about this book in August. In a similar way to The War that Saved My Life, Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves, is sure to be a hit with readers.

[DaNae · Rating 3 out of 5]

I appreciated the historical context. I knew next to nothing about the uboat attacks. I found the folksy writing irritating, Louisa’s voice forced and granny-ish. Some of this might have been damaged by the very annoying reader of the audio.

[Garrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great story up to the falling action. The build up was unnecessary. I felt let down by the resolution. Unfortunately, the title refers to World War II, and I know most of my students jump into any book of this nature; the story does not fulfil its title's reference. The story is great and mostly untold by YA writers (the war on the Homefront), but most YA readers who love WWII fiction will be disappointed by the lack of action.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this. I think it handles the topics discussed well and in a good way for a younger audience. I also learned some stuff that I don’t know before.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming come-of-age novel that grapples with mental illness, grief, and an overlooked part of the WWII "home front" story. Elliott balances these themes with quirky supporting characters and a great dose of wry humor without undercutting the more serious themes LOUISA JUNE explores. Young readers will love the heroine/narrator!

[Michelle Glatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starred review will appear in School Library Connection

[Palatine Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves is about World War II and how the war forever changed Louisa's family and life. Louisa June is a 13-year-old girl. Her mama is melancholy. Louisa June and her four siblings always do their best to put positive vibes to Mama. They never tell Mama about problems or anything negative that would upset her and cause her to drift off into her own world. Louisa June has always been there for Mama. She will always give Mama something cheerful to look forward to as the day goes on, usually a little joke or something funny that happened earlier. Everything was going fine in the family when one day something terrible happened. That terrible incident was more than enough to knock Mama back into her own world. Louisa June has to help her mother and somehow help with the war.

One of my favorite parts of the book is when after the terrible incident happened and when mama drifted off into her own world. It was very interesting and I could feel the emotions of Louisa June at that moment. I also enjoyed the part when one of Louisa’s relatives took Louisa on an unforgettable adventure and told Louisa how to help Mama with melancholy. All in all, Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves is a fantastic gripping book.

Reviewed by: Shivathmika B., grade 6

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

a solid MG (?) read. a highlight for me was the author's evocative descriptions of the landscape/flora & fauna/culture of the rural Virginia setting of this story, as well as its focus on a little-known aspect of WW2 history on the American front. I enjoyed the relatively small cast of endearing characters, & the realism & complexity in its portrayal of familial relationships.

[Allie]

So. Boring. I think middle grade historical fiction really isn't for me if this is what's on offer. The kid was annoying and the whole thing wasn't very well plotted. Not for me, and I also won't be recommending it for reader's advisory.

[Andria Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful heartbreaking middle grade that had gorgeous writing and powerful characters. 5 ⭐! Louisa June will not be forgotten any time soon!

[Clwseattle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've long said the young adult and "tween" writers are some of the best authors today. Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves by L.M. Elliot is a wonderful example of that. She tells a compelling story with well-defined characters in a strait forward and heartfelt manner written with grace. She taught this grandma things she didn't know about American history.

Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves delves deeply into war, tragedy, depression, and fear. It also shows grace and grit under those horrible burdens. The literary references and love of reading is wonderful.

I still give the book 5 stars and realize the faults I find are out of the author's control.

I do not believe the suggested youngest reading age and grade level are correct, not because I don't think children of that age will appreciate Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves but because they have no context of it. Reading the reviews, it’s clear many of us here, did not know this aspect of the war came to our mainland shores.

The children of the lower suggested age have little or no knowledge of World War 2. If our children are being taught American history, it certainly isn't in third grade. We adults read Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves because we understand all that the word 'Nazi' means in its historical context (as opposed to the way it's thrown around carelessly today). That age group doesn't. Another reader elsewhere says it perfectly,

"This is not a children's book but it could be a very good read for the teenage YA audience. So few books deal with this aspect of the war and often gloss over the toll grief and guilt of an untimely death. I'm just not crazy about the cover or the title."

I agree although I have no issue with the cover.

Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves would make a wonderful "assigned reading" for 5th through 8th grade.

5 of the shiniest Stars "in the waves" for Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves.

[PE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another year, another FANTASTIC piece of gripping historical fiction from the wonderful L.M. Elliott. Even though I shouldn't be surprised anymore---as she is consistently one of my favorite authors--she has delivered ten times over with this one.

NAZIS IN THE WAVES is a piece that explores WWII from a not-oft discussed vantage point---the Homefront. More specifically, the efforts of brave, "ordinary" citizens combating the prowling Nazi U-Boats lurking on our shores. It is a piece brimming over with emotional resonance, heart, and sharp insights into the human condition. The effortless way in which Elliott navigates the tricky waters of mental health through an adventure-filled, age-appropriate narrative is worthy of a Navy Admiral. It is thought-provoking, compelling fiction, and speaks to her courage and skill as an artist. It's clear that Elliott really cut herself open and bled onto the page (metaphorically, of course!)---her passion and authenticity practically flies off the page. Louisa June is a standout protagonist, one that, no doubt, readers of all ages will love. And Cousin Belle might be one of the best supporting characters Elliott ever written---a personal favorite, for sure.

But don't just take my word for it---the proof is in the pudding. Two starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Kirkus don't lie. This could be the strongest writing of Elliott's career, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louisa June is the youngest child in her family. When her father's tugboat is sunk by Nazi U-boats, Louisa June's life totally changes. Her beloved older brother is killed and she is determined to help in the war effort in any possible way. However, she must keep her desire to help in the war effort a secret since her father is not doing well after the loss of his son, and her mother, who suffers from mental illness, is barely functioning. Through a series of harrowing adventures with her friend Emmett and her Cousin Belle, Louisa June discovers that everyone can make a difference in their world if they only find the strength to keep trying.

[Amy Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent YA WWII novel, set in Virginia. Here, the youngest girl in a big family that makes its living off the sea, deals with the trauma of WWII...ships along the coastline getting attacked each night, one of them being her father's tugboat with her beloved brother on board. Louisa June is also playing the role of caretaker after the accident, as her mother suffers from depression. I really enjoyed learning all about the events that took place along the Virginia coast during WWII as it was my first time hearing about it, the author's note at the end of the book was extremely informative. Highly recommend.

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

L. M. Elliott did a good job with this historical fictional account of little-known facts of WW II. She draws images of a loving family in Virginia and how the war interrupted their lives. Louisa June, the protagonist, is character readers will appreciate; she's spunky and brave. One bonus character is Cousin Belle--a strong, kind-hearted, and generous relative. Until reading this novel, I never knew the war had touched our shores, but Elliott's thorough research belies that. This is an enjoyable and captivating book.

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Beautiful writing about little known WWII American history. At least, little known to me. German U-boats setting up land mines and blasting torpedoes at American naval ships and merchant marine convoys along the Eastern seaboard of the United States. They attacked close to 400 American ships, killing thousands. I had no idea. Also, a thoughtful, sensitive look at depression and the devastating, desperate effects it can have on family members, particularly children. Very fine historical fiction for middle grade readers.

[Patti Sabik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful story about family, loss, and finding yourself. Very interesting elements of World War II discussed not found in other middle grade literature. Characters are well developed and real with mental illness appropriately addressed.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Well written and we'll researched! Excuse me while I go out all her other books that take place in WWII on hold at the library.

[christine ✩]

sob. Ow.
--
I have been reminded that I need to reread my Alcott books

[Rachel Yoder · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. WAW 24-25. I liked the last half, but it took me a long time to get into it. Definitely a WWII story I had not heard about before.

[Christine Campbell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another 2024-25 WAW book. I would give this a 3.5. I enjoyed this historical fiction book and learned some new things, but I felt like the book cover left me wanting more.

Topics: WWII, depression, loss of a family member/sibling.

[Jaxon Lumzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this book alot

[Rikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a great historical novel for middle grade students. This book has bravery, loss, history, and cats 😊

[Ms. M Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received an eArc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves follows Louisa June and her family along the Virginia coast during WWII as Nazi U-boats started systematically attacking US ships along the eastern coast of the US.

I always find it a good sign of a historical fiction novel if I leave with topics I want to research more. This story covers so many interesting aspects of WWII. Elliott does a great job showing how the east coast of the US, especially the boatmen, were affected during WWII. Characters in the story volunteer for different civil organizations focused on helping track Nazi boats and fend off possible land invasions. They also talk about how “Loose lips sunk ships,” a common refrain from the time. She also manages to flawlessly weave in a large variety of other topics, such as major women leaders during WWII like Lucile Atcherson Curtis and Madame Curie.

One of the things that I loved about this story was that Louisa June’s family was steeped in the literature of the time. Poems by William Butler Yeats were recited by characters. Louisa June reads some books by her namesake, Louisa May, including ones from outside the Little Women world. At one point, she is encouraged to read a recently released book about hobbits fighting an evil force to save the world (The Hobbit would have been released a few years before this story took place). It is clear that Elliot did her research on the time and place this story took place and does a great job immersing the reader in it.

Louisa June’s mom also suffers from depression. The portrayal is realistic and heartbreaking at times. The novel touches on the treatments that were given at this time and how barbaric they were. Her author’s note at the end does a great job of providing explanation for how depression used to be treated and how it is today.

I would highly recommend this book for any intermediate or middle school classroom, and especially for any kid who wants to learn more about WWII, especially how life back home was affected.

[Stacy Renee (LazyDayLit) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Louisa June and her siblings live what Louisa's big brother, Butler, would have called an idyllic life, all together on a family farm nestled on the coast of Virginia. Louisa's mom grows daffodils to sell at market, her father captains a tugboat, and her siblings are finding their way, ready to head off to college. Except that it's the 1940's and war has descended upon the U.S.
Just four days after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor, Germany declared war on the United States, sending U-boat submarines to take out as many oil tankers, freighters, and other vessels along the East Coast as they could. When Louisa June's father and brother, Butler, are caught in the crossfire, Louisa must step up, take on more responsibilities, and fight to keep her mother's spirits up, all while eager to fight the Nazis herself.

Focused on a little-known bit of WWII history pertaining to the U.S, this heartwarming middle-grade story features a happy, loving family that is directly affected by the Nazi submarines that terrorized the East Coast of the U.S.
Despite the focus on war and the disaster that torpedoes bring to the coastal communities, this is a magnificently positive story that finds light and hope (and poetic beauty) in every little moment of every day. Louisa June is a brave and resourceful character that is always willing to help and finds every opportunity to tackle and turn around her mother's occasional melancholy and bring her family together.

This middle-grade novel is well-researched and includes extra information on the events mentioned in this book in the author's note at the end of the story.

This review was originally shared at Lazy Day Literature.