Ronnie's War - Hardcover

Ashley, Bernard

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1847801625 ISBN 13: 9781847801623

Publisher: Frances Lincoln Childrens Books, 2011

Synopsis

It is 1940, and Ronnie Warren is a street-smart 11-year-old living with his mum in south London while his father is away fighting with the army. Ronnie's story starts during the Blitz, when he climbs bravely through bomb rubble to rescue his mother and his aunt. Evacuated to Lancashire, he stands up to a sadistic teacher and embarks on a pre-teen romance. Back in London, his mum hears that her husband is missing, presumed killed. Ronnie believes she has fallen for a GI and makes a fool of himself - but patches things up. VE Day brings joy mixed with grief for Ronnie, knowing that his dad is dead - but a surprise telegram brings unbelievable news.

About this title

Review:

With the exception of the dramatic bombing and rescue that open the book, the materials with which Bernard Ashley builds this picture are generally the mundane, the small, the commonplace. However, it is of such stuff that real lives are made, and through which real emotions and experiences are felt, and this is what makes the book a success: the creation of an emotionally rich journey for Ronnie, and therefore for the reader too. Written in an easy and simple style, the book makes a perfect introduction for a younger reader looking to understand the "war at home". (Guardian)

'Bernard Ashley's great gift is to turn what seems to be low-key realism into something much stronger and more resonant. It has something to do with empathy, compassion, an undimmed thirst for decency and justice' (Phillip Pullman)

A distillation of life during the war, it is told in small telling details. No great heroics, just ordinary people attempting to live their lives. Sparingly written and all the better for that. Engrossing. (Carousel)

This story is at once dramatic, gripping, amusing and poignant, as Ashley contrasts Ronnie’s own private experiences against the global issues of the war. It is often these more quiet, understated moments that are the most moving, as Ronnie tries to live a normal teenage life in a time where war is affecting everything around him. Written in a simple style, and with just the right amounts of sentiment and historical detail, this makes a wonderful book for young readers as well as older children. (Armadillo Magazine)

Ronnie's War provides a moving insight into the impact of WW2. Bernard Ashley's evocation of the times is powerful, and his characters are very believable. Readers will strongly identify with Ronnie. His conflicting emotions towards his mother are particularly well conveyed. (School Librarian)

As professionally told as might be expected from Ashley, and full of interest and information for young readers. (Ibby Link)

About the Author:

Bernard Ashley is a former head teacher who is now writing full-time. He lives in South London where he was born. Bernard's impressive list of titles reflects 35 years of writing realistic fiction – from picture books right up to teenage novels. Several of Bernard's books have been successfully televised and he has frequently appeared on prize lists – his Little Soldier was short-listed for the Guardian Prize in 2000. In addition to his other activities Bernard Ashley also advises internationally on matters concerned with literacy. He is also a very popular visitor to schools. To visit Bernard Ashley's website click here

About this edition

• Publisher: Frances Lincoln Childrens Books
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 1847801625
• ISBN 13: 9781847801623
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 190