When the Sky Falls

by Phil Earle

Key information 

Author: Phil Earle

Illustrator: Tom Clohosy-Cole

Release Date: 3rd June 2021

Book type: Historical Fiction, Chapter

Star rating: ★★★★★

Reader level: Confident

Age: 9+

Overview

After loving Until the Road Ends, I picked up When the Sky Falls — and I can’t believe I hadn’t read it sooner. This story has instantly become one of my all-time favourites, and it’s one I’ll be recommending to students for years.

Set during the Blitz in 1941, the story follows Joseph, a boy sent to live with the strict and seemingly unshakeable Mrs F. She runs a rundown city zoo, home to a powerful silverback gorilla named Adonis. Joseph arrives angry at the world, full of hurt, and determined to push everyone away. But as the air-raids worsen and the pressure grows, the unlikely connection between Joseph, Mrs F and Adonis becomes the emotional heart of the story.

I’ve always loved war stories, but this one stands apart. Joseph’s anger is so vividly written that at times it feels like the pages themselves are shaking with him. His emotional journey is relatable for so many young readers — especially those who feel misunderstood, overwhelmed, or unsure how to express difficult feelings.

Phil Earle’s writing is pitch-perfect for upper KS2 and KS3: engaging, accessible, and filled with depth. In just under 300 pages, he manages to make you laugh, cheer, and cry — sometimes all within a single chapter. The characters are unforgettable, but it’s the storyline itself that hits hardest. It’s raw, honest, and unafraid to explore the realities of war and the impact it has on children.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking, emotionally rich novel that will open meaningful discussions in your classroom, When the Sky Falls is an outstanding choice.

Additional teaching opportunities 

Vocabulary

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