This is a novel based on Mister Tom and young Willie Beech. In the year 1939 Britain is on the verge of the Second World War. Willie is evacuated to the country side from the inner city, to a small village far from inland, where he is nurtured by Tom Oakley. Mr Oakley is a widower who has kept himself to himself ever since his beloved wife had died in childbirth many years before.

At his first glance Billy is frightened of this old man but gradually grows to his grumpy manner and begins to flourish under the surprisingly gentle, cherishing care of Mister Tom. It wasn’t long before a friendship started to build.

Soon Willy gains self-confidence and makes new friends within the community. He discovers hidden talents that he never knew of such as artistic skills and writing.

Willie was a boy who couldn’t read or write, but when he started to attend school he gradually became clever. He was even moved from a lower set to the top set for his English lessons.

After receiving this piece of news, he ran all the way home in search of Mister Tom. Suddenly, their relationship is shattered when he arrives home to find a letter addressed to him telling him that he has to return to blitz-torn London immediately.

Before leaving, Mister Tom tells him to write back on his arrival in London. But it has been over a month and there is no news. Mister Tom is really concerned and makes a decision to go on the search for William’s home. Mister Tom finds William’s home and there is nothing to be seen or heard. But then Mister Tom’s dog barks at the front door as he has smelt something out!

This is one of the best books I have read so far. Not only a sad story but it’s also filled with happiness, excitement and surprises. You never know what sort of journey someone goes through when a country finds itself in a catastrophic situation. The author has demonstrated to us how life can be for a young child during the Second World War. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys reading as you will be fully engaged in the story.

4 stars by Abu Syddek