Young Willie Beech is evacuated to the country as Britain stands on the brink of WW2. A sad, deprived child, he slowly begins to flourish under the care of old Tom Oakley - but his new-found happiness is shattered by a summons from his mother back in London. This title is winner of the "Guardian" Children's Fiction Award.

Author Biography

Puffin Modern Classics bring together much-loved stories which are as fresh and exciting today as when they were first published. Much-loved stories which have stood the test of time such as Charlotte's Web, Stig of the Dump and Goodnight Mister Tom and unforgettable favourites including Artemis Fowl and The Hundred-Mile-an-Hour Dog are available in an exciting new brand look, ready for the next generation to enjoy. Michelle Magorian was originally an actress. While acting, she worked on stories and ended up writing the award-winning Goodnight Mr Tom. She has written further novels, poetry collections, short stories and picture books. Michelle lives in London and continues to act and write.