While There is Tea, There is Hope: The perfect gift for tea-lovers

by Alex Johnson, The Imperial War Museum

During the long years of the Second World War, tea remained the cornerstone of British hospitality, drunk and enjoyed by civilians and members of the armed forces alike.

But on July 9, 1940, Britons learnt that their beloved national drink was to go ‘on the ration’. Even worse – tea was the one rationed foodstuff that could not be grown or reared at home.

This charming little book celebrates the power of tea as a national symbol and act of defiance during Britain’s darkest hour. It's the perfect companion to complement a cuppa and pay tribute to an unsung war hero.

A fascinating look at life during the Second World WarBeautifully illustrated with rich visual material from Imperial War MuseumsFilled with wartime ephemera, historic photographs and war-era artworkPlus, vintage baking recipes to try out and enjoy with your favourite brewThe ideal gift for the tea-lover in your life…aside from more tea, that is!

Genres: Nonfiction

112 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 10, 2025

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[A.J. Sefton · Rating 5 out of 5]

If your country is at war it probably seems as if things couldn't get any worse. But for the British, it did. On 9 July 1940 the government decided to ration tea.

This wonderful little book covers the history of tea during the World Wars, the importance of the beverage and how folk coped during these times. It is full of information and quirky facts, backed up with documents and authentic photographs and artefacts taken from the Imperial War Museum. Clearly laid out, this book is both fun and edifying.

The title - While There is Tea, There is Hope - is a phrase that probably came about during the First World War but came to symbolise morale and unity for the British people. Everyone drank tea, from ordinary folk at home trying to hold together life and society, to royals and those serving in the armed forces. The photographs portraying this are both charming and emboldening. During the challenging conditions it is impressive to see how creative people were in order to have their tea!

But where there is tea there are necessary additions. Teapots and cups (nearly always with saucers), milk, sugar (nearly always added to tea) and biscuits, and the relevant industries and supplies are included in the book. Tea was essential to the war effort. The struggles of rationing lead to inventive ways to make favourite meals, and a couple of wartime recipes are included.

I love this book both for the historical content and the way a staple of British life was used as morale-boosting propaganda showing how powerful something so simple can be. A brilliant gift for someone, even better if paired with some tea and biscuits. Highly recommended.

[Bzz Kolla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Collins for this eCopy to review

I absolutely adored While There is Tea, There is Hope by Alex Johnson and The Imperial War Museum. This book is a delightful insight into the role of tea during wartime Britain, particularly during the World Wars. It’s packed with fascinating historical details, charming photographs, and even vintage recipes that bring the era to life.

Reading it felt like sitting down with a warm cup of tea and listening to stories of resilience, unity, and the simple comforts that kept morale high during Britain’s darkest days. The book beautifully captures how tea became more than just a drink—it was a symbol of defiance, hope, and national identity.

The collaboration with the Imperial War Museum ensures that the book is rich with authentic documents and artefacts, making it both informative and visually engaging. I found myself completely immersed in the stories of soldiers, civilians, and even royalty, all bound together by their love for tea.

If you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the cultural significance of tea, this book is a must-read, a perfect companion to a cosy afternoon with a steaming cup of your favourite brew.

[Paola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Este libro narra la historia del té durante y después de la Segunda Guerra Mundial, una etapa especialmente difícil para los ingleses. A través del té, encontraron una forma de sostenerse tanto en lo emocional como en lo económico.

Además de ofrecer datos e historias interesantes sobre el té, incluye recetas relacionadas con esta bebida: algunas elaboradas con la hoja misma y otras pensadas para acompañar una taza de té, como postres o preparaciones sencillas.

Cada capítulo está acompañado de imágenes que enriquecen la lectura y ayudan a comprender mejor el contexto de aquella época.