Goodreads Summary
London is poised on the brink of World War II. Timid, scrawny Willie Beech — the abused child of a single mother — is evacuated to the English countryside. At first, he is terrified of everything, of the country sounds and sights, even of Mr. Tom, the gruff, kindly old man who has taken him in. But gradually Willie forgets the hate and despair of his past. He learns to love a world he never knew existed, a world of friendship and affection in which harsh words and daily beatings have no place. Then a telegram comes. Willie must return to his mother in London. When weeks pass by with no word from Willie, Mr. Tom sets out for London to look for the young boy he has come to love as a son.
My Thoughts
I received this old classic, which I had sadly never heard of before, at our book club’s holiday book exchange. It gripped my heart from the first page. The story is so touching and so elegantly told. It’s one of those books that teaches about the human condition in an endearing way. The characters are flawless and wonderful, the setting peaceful, and the struggles feel real and true.
Highly recommended!
I was just thinking about this book yesterday! It was a favorite of mine as a teenager, but I had forgotten about it. Something brought it to mind yesterday, and I was thinking I should recommend it to my teen daughter and pre-teen son to read. How fun to see your review this morning! Must be a sign;). It really is such a beautiful book.