When Bronwen and Dylan are frightened by ghostly noises from the chimney on Christmas Eve, they run straight into the arms of their neighbour Mrs O'Riley. As they step next door for the first time, it's not just Bronwen and Dylan who can stop being afraid of what's on the other side of their walls - Mam might just find a blessing there too.
This is an inspiring tale of Christmas goodwill and acceptance from Shirley Hughes, one of the world's best-loved picture book creators. When Bronwen and Dylan are frightened by ghostly noises from the chimney on Christmas Eve, they run straight into the arms of their neighbor Mrs O'Riley. As they step next door for the first time, it's not just Bronwen and Dylan who can stop being afraid of what's on the other side of their walls - Mam might just find a blessing there too. 1930s Liverpool is brought alive with evocative drawings in a story that recognizes the richness of human kindness, even in times of hardship and poverty.
Learn more from this video, in which favourite author Shirley Hughes discusses the book:
“Belongs in every child’s picture book library.” Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times
“A delightful snapshot of an era of tin baths and washing coppers and would make a great read for elderly grandparents to share with primary age children.” Daily Mail
Author
About Shirley Hughes
Winner of the Book Trust Lifetime Achievement Award 2015.
Shirley Hughes (1927 – 2022) was born and grew up in West Kirby, near Liverpool. She studied at Liverpool Art School and at the Ruskin School of Art in Oxford, before embarking on a career as a freelance illustrator. At first she worked as an interpretive illustrator, but she began to write and design her own picture books when her children were very young. Her first book, Lucy and Tom's Day, was published in 1960.
Shirley Hughes illustrated over two hundred children's books and is renowned as a champion of children's literature. She has been the recipient of the Other Award, the Kate Greenaway Medal and the prestigious Eleanor Farjeon Award. She was nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in2010, which rewards the best in contemporary children's and young adult literature from all over the world.
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