Beyond That, the Sea Summary
Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash is a captivating love story that takes place during World War II. The novel revolves around the story of two families living on opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean and the young girl, Beatrix, who becomes a part of both of their worlds.
The story begins in 1940, as German bombs fall over London, and the working-class parents, Millie and Reginald Thompson, make the heart-wrenching decision to send their eleven-year-old daughter, Bea, to America. They hope that she will stay safe with another family for the duration of the war. Scared, angry, and feeling displaced, Bea arrives in Boston to meet the Gregorys - Mr. and Mrs. G, and their sons William and Gerald. The Gregorys fold Bea seamlessly into their world, and she becomes a part of their lively family, adjusting to their affluent lifestyle.
As Bea settles into her new life with the Gregorys, she begins to feel more comfortable and at home than she ever did with her own parents back in England. She grows close to both boys, filling in the gap between them, and her old life in England begins to fade away. However, as the war ends, Bea is called back to London, where she must leave her American family behind.
Despite her desperation to stay in her new life, Bea returns to London and tries to move on with her life. However, the memory of her American family stays with her and never lets her go. As she navigates between her two worlds, Bea struggles to find love and pursue a life of her own.
Beyond That, the Sea is a beautifully written novel, full of grace, heartache, forgiveness, and love. Spence-Ash skillfully weaves together the stories of the two families and the young girl who becomes a part of both of their lives. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles and triumphs are authentic and relatable.
The novel's themes of love, loss, and the struggle to find one's place in the world are timeless and resonate with readers of all ages. Spence-Ash's writing is vivid and emotive, and the novel's setting during World War II adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to the story.
Overall, Beyond That, the Sea is a must-listen for anyone who loves a great love story, full of heart, emotion, and unforgettable characters
