One of my favorite books

William finds a second chance at a happy life when a reclusive hermit, in the English countryside, adopts him.The two help each other to take part in the world again despite its joys and sorrow. This novel can be helpful to kids who read it so they realize even in the bleakest of moments of life there is still hope.

A worthy classic. This book deals with many topics including World War II and the evacuation of children from London, and child abuse. The deaths of Will's baby sister, Trudy, and his best friend, Zach, are just part of a powerful whole. Trudy's death is problematic as it is a result of their mother's abuse and neglect brought about by her unstable mental condition. Her subsequent suicide is a relief and provides Will an opportunity to experience a normal childhood. Will cannot fully assimilate Trudy's death because he has to heal himself. Zach's death results in Will withdrawing into himself. But his emergence from grief gives Will the chance to become the child he should always have been. Will realises that he can live without Zach even though [he] still misses him. The BBC telemovie version is also worth viewing. ( )

About an orphan who has to live with and old hermit grump. Really good, and important to me because it showed how hard life could be and that i had to be thankful for what i had. ( )

I loved this book as soon as I started to read it. Well written and very moving - a memorable read