London – Homespun Sugar

The Christmas Doll

Michelle Underwood Family Time December 18, 2021January 21, 2022Book Review, Christmas, London 0 Comment

The Christmas Doll, Elvira Woodruff

This is a beautiful Christmas story about the power of hope. It takes place in 1840’s London and is about two orphaned sisters living in a workhouse. A deadly fever, likely scarlet fever, sweeps through and claims the lives of many of their friends. Escaping to the streets of London feels like their only hope of survival. This Dickens type tale is reminiscent of Oliver Twist, or Annie.

The beginning chapters are enveloped in death and loss, and may be too much for sensitive children. My children ages 9 and 11 wanted to put the book down after the first couple of chapters, but were thankful they persevered and ended up enjoying the story.

This is a story of loyalty, hard work, and perseverance between sisters, with a beautiful message of hope and the power of miracles. The Christmas doll, Morning Glory, is at the heart of the story and illuminates the magic of imagination and story. The heart-warming ending overshadows the tragic beginning.

A Place To Hang the Moon

Michelle Underwood Family Time November 18, 2021November 18, 2021Book Review, Kate Albus, London, World War II 0 Comment

A Place to Hang the Moon, Kate Albus

The Pearce children, Anna (9), Edmund (11) and William (12), are three orphans living in London at the time of World War II. Their primary care giver, a cold and withdrawn grandmother, has just passed away and they are left wondering what is next. The adventure begins when they are evacuated to the London countryside due to bombings in the city. They come up against much opposition, from the schoolmistress Miss Carr, the Forrester twins, and Mrs. Griffith. Their one place of refuge – the library. Being avid readers, they find immediate comfort in surrounding themselves with books. The librarian Mrs. Muller is always welcoming, and full of kindness and wonderful book recommendations.

The children had always lived a comfortable life with their grandmother, their basic needs being met, all but love. Upon arriving in the country side everything changes for them. The comforts of home are quickly ripped out from under them and they find themselves cold, hungry and poorly cared for. They survive battles with rats and bullies, watery porridge, lice, and loneliness. The one constant – Mrs. Muller and books. The children are fiercely loyal to eachother, and possess courage, bravery, perseverance and hope. This book is absolutely lovely and has a little something for everyone! This is hands down one of our very favorites.

My children are 9 and 10 at the time of our reading. 9 and up is an appropriate age, though it would be appropriate for younger children as well. The content and language of the book are to the highest of standards. Compliments to Kate Albus for a very well written piece of literature!

Our family listened to the audiobook narrated by Polly Lee. It is wonderfully done.