Catherine

Advantages: A literary accreditation to Non Fiction
Disadvantages: The only disadvantage is if you havent yet read it

...Catherine Cookson's Literary skills are a force to be reckoned with. This book encompasses everything you would expect from an author who speaks of lower class degredation as if she has tasted it herself time and time again. Lizzie Gillespie is a character that draws you in, making you feel her anguish and embrace her small successes. When Lizzie is rescued from a step mother who too is too eager to sacrifice her youth and innocence, it appears that finally life is on the up. Her saviour Geoff brings her into his family home and makes her a companion of his mother before leaving for war. His memory of leaving 14 year old Lizzie is a bright willful child with a life of promise ahead of her. Upon returning from war with a back as straight as a rod yet at the same time downtrodden in heart and spirit, he is enraptured by the woman who... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Another great Cookson Novel
Disadvantages: none

...Another great literary example of the power of words Catherine Cookson creates when pen meets paper. A tale of hardship, poverty and children that are thrust into adulthood without a thought in the world. Cookson introduces us to new characters: Roddy Greenbank, a boy whose family is torn apart and he is suddenly an orphan in the world with amnesia following appalling circumstances, Mary Ellen, a spirited girl who is enraptured by Roddy and follows him like a long shadow on a summers day. Finally we meet Hal, the quiet pondering lad who follows Roddy around and watches disasters unfold with a silent tongue but a heavy fist. Following these three children growing up long before their time in an era where children are the providers for a home, you can help but being drawn in. Its definitely a book I would recommend to any Catherine... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: The book takes you back to a far off England, very warm believable characters
Disadvantages: cannot think of any

.... The author describes wonderfully these people and brings them really to life with all of their weaknesses. Miss Brigmore, who I would say is the heroin of the story, plays an important part in this book and as most of Catherine Cookson characters, is not the perfect heroin. Thomas Mallen is the man you want to hate, but cannot help admiring. An unforgetable book which is both funny and heartbreaking at times.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful