The book was about some children in WW2 who for some reason had to cross countries – I recall Poland being one – think that they picked up a few more as they traveled on foot mostly – it was told from the girl’s point of view. Can’t remember title or quote from the book, but read it in 60’s
Solved this one myself ! The book is The Silver Sword AKA Escape From Warsaw by Ian Serraillier. Managed to find a second hand copy..