Marianne Fredriksson — Simon & The Oaks

Orion 1999 Paperback, 295pp. Simon is an ordinary boy growing up in Sweden; at least until World War II is declared; until he befriends the traumatised Jewish boy Isak; and until he learns that he is adopted. With his innocence forever lost, Simon must embark on a quest for self-hood that will be his salvation - or ruin. (ISBN: 0752825151). Good.