This is a real classic - the story of the large family of a dustman and a washerwoman, set in the 1930s. It has humour, lightness of touch and a cast of captivating characters, from the mischievous twins Jim and John and cinema-loving Joe, to the dreamy, academic Kate and the down-to-earth oldest child, Lily-Rose. One of the first children's stories to feature a working-class family, it is affectionate rather than gritty - but feels authentic in detail and dialogue. Struggling to pay for a school uniform, shrinking a valued customer's silk blouse, or a Bank Holiday expedition are typical episodes leading to excitement and adventure.
Good for:
- Readers of 8-10
- boys and especially girls
- readers interested in historical periods and "real-life" adventure
If you liked this, try:
- Eve Garnett's two excellent sequels
- Private: Keep Out by Gwen Grant - tales of a feisty working-class heroine, in a large family in 1950s Sheffield
- The Turbulent Term of Tyke Tyler by Gene Kemp - humorous and down-to-earth flavour, but a more recent setting
- Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Magorian - another classic which evokes ordinary life
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