The cover is unmistakably the end of the Second World War, with happy girls arm in arm, it sets the scene perfectly. I have not read the previous seven books in this "Ration Book" series, so it could have been a difficulty if the plot depends on having done so to know the characters - but not a problem here! This book stands on its own two feet. The story is about the Irish diaspora living in East London at the end of the War, and the end of the War is the end of the book.
Jean Fullerton has a superb way of bringing the characters to life, credibly and touchingly portraying a world of ordinary people which was irrevocably changed by the War and its social upheaval. There were larger families in those days, living closer touch with each other and caring for each other.
Chapters alternate between the life in Ireland left behind, and the current time. This can be difficult to follow, but again Jean Fullerton handles it superbly, and you are aware of the "then and now" gradually converging. As Jean knits one, perls one, and knits two together the threads of the poignant love story, you see how the whole picture is building up. This is a touching, "feel good" story. Wonderful.
Jean Fullerton has a superb way of bringing the characters to life, credibly and touchingly portraying a world of ordinary people which was irrevocably changed by the War and its social upheaval. There were larger families in those days, living closer touch with each other and caring for each other.
Chapters alternate between the life in Ireland left behind, and the current time. This can be difficult to follow, but again Jean Fullerton handles it superbly, and you are aware of the "then and now" gradually converging. As Jean knits one, perls one, and knits two together the threads of the poignant love story, you see how the whole picture is building up. This is a touching, "feel good" story. Wonderful.