Greencoats- Kate Innes

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 Greencoats- Kate Innes- Childrens (middle grade historical fantasy)

A wonderful read for any age. Its wartime in Birmingham and Gwen’s mother has decided that after a bomb fell on their street Gwen would be better in the country after all. Her school friends were evacuated a while ago but as there was only Gwen and her mother, she stayed. Now things are more serious and Gwen is sent to stay with her Aunt Eglentina. She soon meets a friend named Edward and he shows her around the countryside. Her constant companion is her aunt's dog Boo, who found Eglentina (Tiny) just after her husband passed away. This tells of Gwen's adventures during her stay, especially that in the woods.

This is a charming, enchanting read and one I feel that would evoke questions about the war and evacuation and that many children were not with their families for a large duration of the war-perhaps sparking further studies.I loved Tiny’s character, different from Gwen's mother (her sister)- something Gwen quickly picks up on. There is a real charm about this making it easy to picture the scenes and I think would possibly be one to read to younger children. Gwen is a good role model- she is strong and determined and has overcome her own adversities. There is a respect for the countryside and all living things which comes through well and not forced or laboured. Some life lessons- bereavement and mental health for example are touched on in a sensitive and understanding way- again something perhaps for discussion whilst bringing such subjects gently into the lives of the young.

A brilliant read which I feel would broaden the horizons of many children and one I thoroughly enjoyed despite being rather older(!). There’s still that child perhaps in all of us ?? 

For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog


Purchase link:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Greencoats-Kate-Innes/dp/0993483763/ref=sr_1_1?crid=B7CU51Y3QY40&keywords=greencoats+kate+innes&qid=1641823166&sprefix=greencoats+k%2Caps%2C75&sr=8-1

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