Keep Calm and Carry On, Children

Middle Grade Historical Fiction

by Sharon K. Mayhew

Eleven-year-old Joyce and her little sister hide in their bomb shelter during the German Blitz on London, during World War II. After nights of bombing, it’s decided that they’ll join the over 800,000 children who’ve already been evacuated during Operation Pied Piper. They board a train not knowing where they’re going or who will take them in.

The long, crowded train ride is less than pleasant. Thankfully they make two allies, Sam and Molly. Upon arriving in Leek, the evacuees are herded off the train and paraded down the street like sheep. Joyce and her sister are terrified they won’t be chosen.

Eventually, a family welcomes them. As they adjust to all the changes, they find the people of Leek aren’t so accepting to all the evacuees. Sam’s host is dark and abusive. As the girls help plan his escape, they discover this sleepy little community holds a dark secret…

REVIEW

5 out of 5

This was such a fascinating book – and being based on a true story, makes it all the more interesting. The imagery is so vivid, you’re transported back to WWII, bombing raids and all. I was impressed with Mayhew’s ability to bring everything to life, including the sounds. For a book targeting younger readers, I got so wrapped up in it that I flew through it pretty quickly. This is a great way to give younger readers an insight into a horrible time during history that might only be lightly touched upon in their classes at school. Highly recommend!

LEARN MORE

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sharon Mayhew, born in England, immigrated to The United States when she was eight. She spent seventeen years teaching third and fourth graders to read and write. KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON, CHILDREN is inspired by her ninety-eight-year-old grandfather’s life. During World War II his parents took in two children from London during Operation Pied Piper. Sharon resides with her family in Arkansas. You can find out more about her by visiting http://skmayhew.blogspot.com/