Shrapnel Boys

Two days before Britain’s Declaration of War, Ronnie, his younger brother, Micky, and best friend, Lugs, watch many children from their school set off as they are evacuated to the countryside. Ronnie’s mum cannot bear to be parted from her boys and Ronnie considers himself the man of the house since she kicked their father out. When war is declared, his mum decides to have an Andersen shelter built in the garden and a neighbour recommends a certain Johnny Simmons to do the job. Although Ronnie takes an instant dislike to him, everyone else succumbs to Johnny’s charm and when Ronnie turns down the chance to earn some money doing odd jobs, Micky is quick to agree. This leads to a divide forming between the brothers as Micky becomes increasingly secretive and Ronnie increasingly concerned about what his little brother has become mixed up in.

‘Shrapnel Boys’ is a huge change of pace from the humorous, heart-warming stories readers have become used to from Jenny Pearson; however, it simply shows that she is a superb storyteller, able to turn her hand to hard-hitting adventures with as much skill as anything else.

Full of historical detail, it is obvious that a great deal of research underpins this adventure story, making it a gripping, exciting read, but one which also offers readers information about the war and the lives of families affected by it. It would make an excellent key text to support a history topic through study and discussion, or as a class read to enjoy alongside work.

Ronnie is a real cheeky chappie, often in trouble at school, but with a heart of gold. His loyalty to family and friends is endearing and he strives to keep them safe against all odds. The contrast between his rough and ready personality and the charming, manipulative Johnny, who is so quick to use others to further his own ends, works really well and may well offer a starting point for some much-needed conversations about coercive control and how people may not always be as they seem.

At times, the story is not an easy read- I found it quite uncomfortable in places- but it is challenging, thought-provoking and powerful. One not to be missed.

Shrapnel Boys

Jenny Pearson

Usborne    ISBN: 978-1805312963