The English Air

The English Air by D. E. Stevenson tells the story of Franz von Heiden, son of a Nazi official but with an English mother. He comes to England in 1938 to visit his English cousins, and to study them. He is not only accepted by the Braithwaite’s, but this stiff, formal young man also discovers that Hitler doesn’t have all the answers. He develops an admiration for the English people and realizes that freedom, respect for others and standing up for one’s beliefs are more important than blind obedience and following the unbreakable rules of the Nazi party.

He falls in love with Wynne Braithwaite and, she in turn loves him, but when he realizes that war is unavoidable, he leaves and returns to Germany. There he joins a freedom league show more and resists until it becomes too dangerous for him to remain. His friends help him return to England but needing to do his part he decides to go and fight the Nazi’s in Finland.

I really enjoyed this book, originally published in 1940 during World War II. The Braithwaite family were a delight to read about and even Franz who came in as a strong supporter of Hitler, grew on me as he slowly changed his views. The war is a constant shadow in the background of this story and although the author left the ending hanging, I think it was wisely done as at that point in the war no one knew which way it was going to go. D. E. Stevenson is known for her light, comic touch and that is certainly evident here but in The English Air she also doesn’t shy away from more serious issues as well. show less

I love these old comfortable books. Lovely characters, beautiful settings, happy endings. There are troubles, but they can be overcome. Everyone works together for friends and family. A wonderful escape read.

A German young man comes to spend time with his English cousins during the Second World War. He uses the seemingly innocent visit to cover a little spying on the side. Very pro-British sentiments (go figure). I love this book.