This book looks at the aftermath of World War Two. Despite their reputation as the ‘roaring twenties’, they were actually incredibly tough times to live through: the book reminds us that so many people who had lost their loved ones and there were families living in desperate poverty. It is, then, thought-provoking and interesting. Belinda, the main character, has lost her fiancé Ben (hence being a surplus girl). She is trying to make a life for herself independent from her troubled family through studying at evening classes. The book watches her grow in confidence The story is simple and well told, making for an easy read. There are no major surprises but you still end up rooting for Belinda and her happily ever after.