What do you think?
Rate this book
Shrapnel Boys
An explosive new novel about the friendship and courage of a group of young boys living through the Second World War, from award-winning author Jenny Pearson.
There's a war going on out there, and I'm missing it.
When war comes to London in 1939, Ronnie Smith is scared and excited: scared of the bombs that fall at night, but excited to race his friends to collect the best bits of shrapnel every morning.
But for Ronnie, the battles aren't just in the sky and on the streets. They're at school and at home too. His little brother is up to no good with a secret job and dangerous new friends, and Ronnie's worried he's getting himself into big trouble.
Ronnie's desperate to help his little brother. But he isn't expecting to uncover secrets that could change the fate of the whole war...
There's a war going on out there, and I'm missing it.
When war comes to London in 1939, Ronnie Smith is scared and excited: scared of the bombs that fall at night, but excited to race his friends to collect the best bits of shrapnel every morning.
But for Ronnie, the battles aren't just in the sky and on the streets. They're at school and at home too. His little brother is up to no good with a secret job and dangerous new friends, and Ronnie's worried he's getting himself into big trouble.
Ronnie's desperate to help his little brother. But he isn't expecting to uncover secrets that could change the fate of the whole war...
- GenresMiddle Grade
384 pages, Paperback
Published May 8, 2025
3 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Pearson
10 books1 followerLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 8, 2025
The saying "Out of the mouths of babes" is an idiom that refers to a child saying something wise or insightful, often surprisingly so, and nowhere was it more appropriate than in “Shrapnel Boys”
Brothers, Ronnie and Micky Smith, and friend Billy Missel (otherwise known as Lugs), are three boys in Deptford, London, as we meet them at the outbreak of the Second World War. Many children were being evacuated to the country for their own safety, but quite apart from their mums’ not wanting them to go, our three boys didn’t want to leave their families anyway.
During World War II, many boys in Britain, and likely elsewhere, collected shrapnel after air raids, viewing it as a wartime "hobby", and our three boys were no different. They became avid collectors, looking upon them as trophies. It was something that provided a little fun in a dark world.
However, when charismatic Johnny Simmons enters their lives on the guise of building an Anderson shelter for Ronnie and Micky’s single mum, things take a turn for the worse, as Johnny wangles his way into their Mum’s affections, and also Micky’s, much to Ronnie’s dismay, because Ronnie is very astute for a young lad and sees what the others can’t, that Johnny is no good, and he’s determined to find out exactly what he’s up to!
This was a wonderful read that showed how the lads coped with the Blitz, witnessed the rise of Fascist Oswald Mosley and the Blackshirts, food rationing, ‘spivs’, Johnny Simmons and so much more. They were going to have to grow up much faster than they ought to have, but it was a delight to witness just how much that growth would affect their relationships, and place caring and wise heads on young shoulders. Tense, moving and funny. Highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Usborne Publishing for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Brothers, Ronnie and Micky Smith, and friend Billy Missel (otherwise known as Lugs), are three boys in Deptford, London, as we meet them at the outbreak of the Second World War. Many children were being evacuated to the country for their own safety, but quite apart from their mums’ not wanting them to go, our three boys didn’t want to leave their families anyway.
During World War II, many boys in Britain, and likely elsewhere, collected shrapnel after air raids, viewing it as a wartime "hobby", and our three boys were no different. They became avid collectors, looking upon them as trophies. It was something that provided a little fun in a dark world.
However, when charismatic Johnny Simmons enters their lives on the guise of building an Anderson shelter for Ronnie and Micky’s single mum, things take a turn for the worse, as Johnny wangles his way into their Mum’s affections, and also Micky’s, much to Ronnie’s dismay, because Ronnie is very astute for a young lad and sees what the others can’t, that Johnny is no good, and he’s determined to find out exactly what he’s up to!
This was a wonderful read that showed how the lads coped with the Blitz, witnessed the rise of Fascist Oswald Mosley and the Blackshirts, food rationing, ‘spivs’, Johnny Simmons and so much more. They were going to have to grow up much faster than they ought to have, but it was a delight to witness just how much that growth would affect their relationships, and place caring and wise heads on young shoulders. Tense, moving and funny. Highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Usborne Publishing for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
November 22, 2025
Shortlisted for the Nero Book Awards 2025
Over the years there have been many classic children’s stories set in World War II ; Letters from the Lighthouse, Goodnight Mr Tom, Carrie's War, The Silver Sword and many more.
Now there is a new book that should be up among the classics - Shrapnel Boys.
Jenny Pearson has written a gripping, moving, sometime humorous and important story about life in World War II.
This is the story of Ronnie and Micky- two brothers living alone with mum at the outbreak of the war and unlike many children aren't evacuated, remain in London and are witness to the horrors that ensue.
But this is a story that also digs deeper than many books and explores the dark underbelly of the English and the Blackshirt brigade led by Oswald Mosley ( fascism in everyday society).
Without a father, the 'charismatic' Johnny appears on the scene and charms his way into the family but Ronnie senses that all is not what it seems - soon his brother is under the spell of the man and fears for his safety.
Against this backdrop, the two brothers and their friend Lugs form the Shrapnel Boys who compete against fellow school rivals The Wreckers to see who can find the most shrapnel.
But it is the battle to uncover Johnny's dark secrets, protect his mum and brother and support his friend Lugs who is from a jewish family that makes this novel such an outstanding read. Ronnie's conflicted emotions are palpable.
Fast paced, full of social awareness and sensitivity, the Shrapnel Boys is certainly a top read for 9-12 year old readers /upper key stage 2 classes for 2025 and would be an excellent class topic read.
In a world where divisions are ever more evident and extreme right groups still prevail, the Shrapnel Boys highlights that even in war the 'enemy' was closer than you thought.
A superb read- one that will be highly recommended to colleagues in schools and friends - and should be a future classic children's read !!
Over the years there have been many classic children’s stories set in World War II ; Letters from the Lighthouse, Goodnight Mr Tom, Carrie's War, The Silver Sword and many more.
Now there is a new book that should be up among the classics - Shrapnel Boys.
Jenny Pearson has written a gripping, moving, sometime humorous and important story about life in World War II.
This is the story of Ronnie and Micky- two brothers living alone with mum at the outbreak of the war and unlike many children aren't evacuated, remain in London and are witness to the horrors that ensue.
But this is a story that also digs deeper than many books and explores the dark underbelly of the English and the Blackshirt brigade led by Oswald Mosley ( fascism in everyday society).
Without a father, the 'charismatic' Johnny appears on the scene and charms his way into the family but Ronnie senses that all is not what it seems - soon his brother is under the spell of the man and fears for his safety.
Against this backdrop, the two brothers and their friend Lugs form the Shrapnel Boys who compete against fellow school rivals The Wreckers to see who can find the most shrapnel.
But it is the battle to uncover Johnny's dark secrets, protect his mum and brother and support his friend Lugs who is from a jewish family that makes this novel such an outstanding read. Ronnie's conflicted emotions are palpable.
Fast paced, full of social awareness and sensitivity, the Shrapnel Boys is certainly a top read for 9-12 year old readers /upper key stage 2 classes for 2025 and would be an excellent class topic read.
In a world where divisions are ever more evident and extreme right groups still prevail, the Shrapnel Boys highlights that even in war the 'enemy' was closer than you thought.
A superb read- one that will be highly recommended to colleagues in schools and friends - and should be a future classic children's read !!
May 11, 2025
Wow, what an incredibly accomplished novel! This felt like a modern historical classic, the kind of story Michael Morpurgo or Phil Earle would be proud to have written. I read a lot of historical fiction, and right now, middle grade authors are leading the charge in this genre with powerful, unforgettable storytelling—and Jenny Pearson is no exception.
This book delivers a gripping storyline with deeply compelling characters. I found myself gasping, smiling, and crying throughout. The stakes are high, the action scenes are intense, and its heartbreaking portrayal of the fragility of war is both brave and beautifully told.
It's bold, moving, and without a doubt, Jenny Pearson's best work yet.
This book delivers a gripping storyline with deeply compelling characters. I found myself gasping, smiling, and crying throughout. The stakes are high, the action scenes are intense, and its heartbreaking portrayal of the fragility of war is both brave and beautifully told.
It's bold, moving, and without a doubt, Jenny Pearson's best work yet.
August 24, 2025
yeah no comment... just dont waste your money buying this
and if anyone in the bookstore tries to convince u to buy it just know its because the book isnt selling well and it always happens for a reason.
dont be stupid like me
and if anyone in the bookstore tries to convince u to buy it just know its because the book isnt selling well and it always happens for a reason.
dont be stupid like me
July 26, 2025
This is outstanding middle grade historical fiction.
Shrapnel Boys is set in Deptford, London, at the outbreak of WWII. Ronnie Smith is the narrator and is recounting the time between the declaration of war up to a moment during the height of the Blitz. As Deptford is situated right on the Thames, it was heavily targeted in German air raids.
Ronnie lives with his mum and little brother, Micky. To begin with, the boys go to school as if nothing has happened, having encounters with their draconian headteacher, Mr Etherington. But, before long, the war upends everything.
As if bombs dropping from the sky isn’t harrowing enough, the real danger finds his way into their home and their lives. Ronnie and Micky are soon exposed to an opportunist criminal exploiting the war for gain. He has falsified a medical exemption from service and he has links to organised crime and Oswald Mosley’s B.U.F. What’s more, he’s making moves on their mum. Why is Ronnie the only one who can see right through rotten Johnny Simmons?
Luckily, scouring the streets in a race to find the best war trophies is a welcome distraction. It’s also an act of resistance to all of the forces threatening their childhoods.
Shrapnel Boys often feels more of a social history than a war story. The period is evoked brilliantly through details and deacription but I was hooked in instantly by the authenticity of the voice and dialogue.
It’s chock-full of heart. There are heroes and villains and some in between. There’s moral courage against the odds, and a major unexpected redemption arc. I liked the way we were led to see how adversity can bring out the worst or best in people.
There’s also an excellent cat.
More like this? The Machine Gunners by Robert Westall, When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle and Under a Fire Red Sky by Geraldine McCaughrean.
Shrapnel Boys is set in Deptford, London, at the outbreak of WWII. Ronnie Smith is the narrator and is recounting the time between the declaration of war up to a moment during the height of the Blitz. As Deptford is situated right on the Thames, it was heavily targeted in German air raids.
Ronnie lives with his mum and little brother, Micky. To begin with, the boys go to school as if nothing has happened, having encounters with their draconian headteacher, Mr Etherington. But, before long, the war upends everything.
As if bombs dropping from the sky isn’t harrowing enough, the real danger finds his way into their home and their lives. Ronnie and Micky are soon exposed to an opportunist criminal exploiting the war for gain. He has falsified a medical exemption from service and he has links to organised crime and Oswald Mosley’s B.U.F. What’s more, he’s making moves on their mum. Why is Ronnie the only one who can see right through rotten Johnny Simmons?
Luckily, scouring the streets in a race to find the best war trophies is a welcome distraction. It’s also an act of resistance to all of the forces threatening their childhoods.
Shrapnel Boys often feels more of a social history than a war story. The period is evoked brilliantly through details and deacription but I was hooked in instantly by the authenticity of the voice and dialogue.
It’s chock-full of heart. There are heroes and villains and some in between. There’s moral courage against the odds, and a major unexpected redemption arc. I liked the way we were led to see how adversity can bring out the worst or best in people.
There’s also an excellent cat.
More like this? The Machine Gunners by Robert Westall, When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle and Under a Fire Red Sky by Geraldine McCaughrean.
July 25, 2025
I don't think I can put into words how much I enjoyed this book, because I fear that my words will not be enough.
This is by far my favourite book of 2025. It's a children's book, middle grade to be exact, but this story is definitely one that can also be enjoyed by adults - and I am proof of that.
Shrapnel Boys tells the story of two brothers, Ronnie and Micky Smith, at the start of World War Two. Ronnie often gets into a lot of trouble at school by running his mouth, much to the chagrin of the strict headmaster, Mr Etherington, who canes him regularly. However, Mr Etherington decides to change up his tactics so that whenever Ronnie gets into trouble, it's his younger brother, Micky, and his best friend Billy, (also known as Lugs) who get caned instead. Ronnie's increasingly troublesome nature begins to create a rift between Ronnie and Micky, and this is only made worse when a man named Johnny Simmons enters their lives.
Micky and his mother are immediately taken with Johnny, but Ronnie can sense something much more sinister about him. And he's right. Because Johnny is a member of the British Union of Fascists, also known as the Blackshirts, a British political party led by Oswald Mosley who were sympathetic towards the Nazi's and wanted to bring Hitler's fascism to Britain. I'd heard very briefly about Mosley before, but I didn't realise just how damaging his ideologies were until reading this book.
Desperate to fill the hole in his heart due to their father's abandonment and mistreatment of his wife and sons, Micky falls into Johnny's clutches, wanting to find a father figure in him. Soon enough, Johnny has Micky doing illegal jobs for him, such as delivering falsified medical records to other members of the BUF to get them out of conscription, and robbing rich houses. Although Ronnie can see Johnny for who he really is, his mother is blindsided and often dismisses his accusations in a desperate attempt to find adult companionship in what she couldn't find in her alcoholic and abusive (although never outright said, it is heavily implied) ex-husband. His mother's actions frustrated me, but it is a classic example of the time period, and the notion that children were "seen, not heard". As the war rages on in Britain, Ronnie, Micky and Lugs join up with another group of boys, archenemies from their school, in a competition to see who can collect the best bits of shrapnel from the fallen bombs, hence the name Shrapnel Boys.
This is a wonderful book, packed full of mystery, action, adventure, friendship and most importantly, love between two brothers. Ronnie loves Micky so much, and would do anything to keep him safe, even when Micky doesn't always see it that way. However, when Ronnie believes his brother is lost and that Johnny has sunk his claws into Micky completely, Micky shows moments of care for Ronnie, and tries to protect him from Johnny's nasty ways. Their relationship actually reminded me of one of my favourite books of all time, Michael Morpurgo's Private Peaceful, and the relationship between Charlie and Tommo in that story. Funnily enough, Pearson actually mentions Private Peaceful in the author's note as being one of her inspirations for this book.
This book made me laugh, cry; made me feel angry and sad, but most of all, it made me feel hope. That even in the darkest times, there will always be moments of hopefulness and joy. I've been in a reading rut lately, unable to find stories that satisfy me, but this book has brought back that dopamine hit I get whenever I read middle grade fiction, and will not be the last middle grade book I read. In fact, it's just inspired me to read in that genre more, even if I am too old to be considered reading in that age category.
I'm going to be recommending this book to absolutely everyone.
This is by far my favourite book of 2025. It's a children's book, middle grade to be exact, but this story is definitely one that can also be enjoyed by adults - and I am proof of that.
Shrapnel Boys tells the story of two brothers, Ronnie and Micky Smith, at the start of World War Two. Ronnie often gets into a lot of trouble at school by running his mouth, much to the chagrin of the strict headmaster, Mr Etherington, who canes him regularly. However, Mr Etherington decides to change up his tactics so that whenever Ronnie gets into trouble, it's his younger brother, Micky, and his best friend Billy, (also known as Lugs) who get caned instead. Ronnie's increasingly troublesome nature begins to create a rift between Ronnie and Micky, and this is only made worse when a man named Johnny Simmons enters their lives.
Micky and his mother are immediately taken with Johnny, but Ronnie can sense something much more sinister about him. And he's right. Because Johnny is a member of the British Union of Fascists, also known as the Blackshirts, a British political party led by Oswald Mosley who were sympathetic towards the Nazi's and wanted to bring Hitler's fascism to Britain. I'd heard very briefly about Mosley before, but I didn't realise just how damaging his ideologies were until reading this book.
Desperate to fill the hole in his heart due to their father's abandonment and mistreatment of his wife and sons, Micky falls into Johnny's clutches, wanting to find a father figure in him. Soon enough, Johnny has Micky doing illegal jobs for him, such as delivering falsified medical records to other members of the BUF to get them out of conscription, and robbing rich houses. Although Ronnie can see Johnny for who he really is, his mother is blindsided and often dismisses his accusations in a desperate attempt to find adult companionship in what she couldn't find in her alcoholic and abusive (although never outright said, it is heavily implied) ex-husband. His mother's actions frustrated me, but it is a classic example of the time period, and the notion that children were "seen, not heard". As the war rages on in Britain, Ronnie, Micky and Lugs join up with another group of boys, archenemies from their school, in a competition to see who can collect the best bits of shrapnel from the fallen bombs, hence the name Shrapnel Boys.
This is a wonderful book, packed full of mystery, action, adventure, friendship and most importantly, love between two brothers. Ronnie loves Micky so much, and would do anything to keep him safe, even when Micky doesn't always see it that way. However, when Ronnie believes his brother is lost and that Johnny has sunk his claws into Micky completely, Micky shows moments of care for Ronnie, and tries to protect him from Johnny's nasty ways. Their relationship actually reminded me of one of my favourite books of all time, Michael Morpurgo's Private Peaceful, and the relationship between Charlie and Tommo in that story. Funnily enough, Pearson actually mentions Private Peaceful in the author's note as being one of her inspirations for this book.
This book made me laugh, cry; made me feel angry and sad, but most of all, it made me feel hope. That even in the darkest times, there will always be moments of hopefulness and joy. I've been in a reading rut lately, unable to find stories that satisfy me, but this book has brought back that dopamine hit I get whenever I read middle grade fiction, and will not be the last middle grade book I read. In fact, it's just inspired me to read in that genre more, even if I am too old to be considered reading in that age category.
I'm going to be recommending this book to absolutely everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2025
Holy moly - this is different to the Jenny Pearson stories I've read but blimey what a story! Also how the heck teachers have the time to research and write this calibre astounds me. Ours seem to work all the hours imaginable!
Ronnie and Micky live with their Mum, a nurse, in Deptford, London.
We meet them just before war is declared in 1939. Some children from their area have already been sent to the countryside but Mum couldn't bear to let them go - although the boys say they wouldn't have gone anyway!
Dad has been gone for a while, they threw him out. He'd been drunk and violent as the horrors of war overcame him.
Their best friend is Lugs, yes on account of his ears! He and his family are Jewish; his Dad refuses to sign up to fight, but eventually gets called up as ambulance personnel on the battlefields.
Ronnie, Micky and their best friend Lugs are the biggest kids at the school now because Arthur Davey, Graham Talbot and Harry Scott had been sent to the countryside. The boys continue to attend school with the Head teacher Mr Etherington not letting up on them at all, in fact when Ronnie starts being Ronnie - he decides he will punish Lugs and Micky but not Ronnie just to see how long he has friends then!
When war is declared the family need an air raid shelter. Mrs Green, Vera, who lives next door says her son knows someone who'll do it. Johnny Simmons arrives and Ronnie dislikes him on sight. And even more so when Johnny lets on that he agrees with Oswald Mosley and his view that the war is all the fault of the Jews, and that we shouldn't be interfering at all.
But Ronnie and Lugs are the only ones who don't like Johnny. He worms his way in. Mum and Vera think he's wonderful. Johnny offers Ronnie a bike to help him with some work but Ronnie refuses. Micky however doesn't. But just what has Johnny got Micky into?
Johnny disappears for a while stopping Micky from working. Arthur, Graham and Harry return from the countryside, despite the bombs now being dropped. The boys become two teams Arthur and his friends are The Wreckers and Ronnie and his friends The Shrapnel Boys and they have a competition - to find the best bits of shrapnel they can.
But Johnny returns and this time he doesn't just get Micky involved - Arthur, Graham and Harry get into helping too.
Ronnie knows that Johnny is a fascist and a member of the Blackshirts with Oswald Mosley but what is he getting the boys into and how is he connected to Mr Etherington? And why has he managed to charm everyone else into thinking he's amazing? Even Mum won't listen to Ronnie.
5* brilliance. A view of wartime life in London, the resilience and determination not to be beaten. I haven't read a MG story about the Blackshirts before, and their views did and still do seem abhorrent. But the charm of a man who is able to sweet talk his way into a family and cause trouble for them is a known factor even today. Jenny Pearson is known for her books that have strong families and friendships within them along with the hilarity but this has all of that and more.
Absolutely loved it.
Thanks to Fritha at Usborne Children books for the early copy.
Ronnie and Micky live with their Mum, a nurse, in Deptford, London.
We meet them just before war is declared in 1939. Some children from their area have already been sent to the countryside but Mum couldn't bear to let them go - although the boys say they wouldn't have gone anyway!
Dad has been gone for a while, they threw him out. He'd been drunk and violent as the horrors of war overcame him.
Their best friend is Lugs, yes on account of his ears! He and his family are Jewish; his Dad refuses to sign up to fight, but eventually gets called up as ambulance personnel on the battlefields.
Ronnie, Micky and their best friend Lugs are the biggest kids at the school now because Arthur Davey, Graham Talbot and Harry Scott had been sent to the countryside. The boys continue to attend school with the Head teacher Mr Etherington not letting up on them at all, in fact when Ronnie starts being Ronnie - he decides he will punish Lugs and Micky but not Ronnie just to see how long he has friends then!
When war is declared the family need an air raid shelter. Mrs Green, Vera, who lives next door says her son knows someone who'll do it. Johnny Simmons arrives and Ronnie dislikes him on sight. And even more so when Johnny lets on that he agrees with Oswald Mosley and his view that the war is all the fault of the Jews, and that we shouldn't be interfering at all.
But Ronnie and Lugs are the only ones who don't like Johnny. He worms his way in. Mum and Vera think he's wonderful. Johnny offers Ronnie a bike to help him with some work but Ronnie refuses. Micky however doesn't. But just what has Johnny got Micky into?
Johnny disappears for a while stopping Micky from working. Arthur, Graham and Harry return from the countryside, despite the bombs now being dropped. The boys become two teams Arthur and his friends are The Wreckers and Ronnie and his friends The Shrapnel Boys and they have a competition - to find the best bits of shrapnel they can.
But Johnny returns and this time he doesn't just get Micky involved - Arthur, Graham and Harry get into helping too.
Ronnie knows that Johnny is a fascist and a member of the Blackshirts with Oswald Mosley but what is he getting the boys into and how is he connected to Mr Etherington? And why has he managed to charm everyone else into thinking he's amazing? Even Mum won't listen to Ronnie.
5* brilliance. A view of wartime life in London, the resilience and determination not to be beaten. I haven't read a MG story about the Blackshirts before, and their views did and still do seem abhorrent. But the charm of a man who is able to sweet talk his way into a family and cause trouble for them is a known factor even today. Jenny Pearson is known for her books that have strong families and friendships within them along with the hilarity but this has all of that and more.
Absolutely loved it.
Thanks to Fritha at Usborne Children books for the early copy.
April 6, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Usborne for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I know they're aimed at children but I've read Jenny's books before and always enjoyed them. This was a far cry from her others and I'm a bit torn about it.
I don't remember there being a whole lot of children's war books when I was young, apart from Goodnight Mister Tom, but now you've got them from the likes of Phil Earle and now Jenny Pearson, and I think it's really important to teach children about the war in a suitable way.
It is age appropriate but doesn't shy away rom the harshness of the war, and nor should it. And I liked that the protagonists were children too, because they definitely react to something like war in a different way than adults, and this juxtaposition between innocence and warfare was interesting.
I found it quite repetitive, especially in the first quarter or so, to the point that I was skimming bits, wanting to get to the next chapter in the hope that something else was going to happen. It did get better as it went along and other things started to happen, and it started to play on the reader's emotions.
I didn't have a huge care for the characters. Ronnie was okay, but I didn't like his brother Mickey (at least for the most part), and Jonnie, who was made out to be the villain, felt too much like a caricature and he annoyed me, and I was starting to dread the chapters he was in. And the female characters sort of felt pointless. Not in the sense that in period women were seen as subordinate, but they didn't bring anything to the story.
It felt too much of a war story to be this big important literary or character exploration, but too much character and background for it to be a great war story. It felt like Jenny was feeing her way through it, like she was trying to force something it wasn't.
All the reviews I have seen have been five star, absolutely raving about it, but I am the anomaly. There are good points to it, it's atmospheric, interesting look at the war through the community rather than the way itself, seeing war through a child's eye etc. But I felt there were too many things happening, trying to fight for the main plot, and it was repetitive and I didn't find it all that exciting. Maybe this is a kids book that should stay with the kids. Maybe in schools. But as an adult, it just felt flat. It was a pleasant and quick read, but I didn't really get it, sadly. But I seem to be the only person to think that way.
I know they're aimed at children but I've read Jenny's books before and always enjoyed them. This was a far cry from her others and I'm a bit torn about it.
I don't remember there being a whole lot of children's war books when I was young, apart from Goodnight Mister Tom, but now you've got them from the likes of Phil Earle and now Jenny Pearson, and I think it's really important to teach children about the war in a suitable way.
It is age appropriate but doesn't shy away rom the harshness of the war, and nor should it. And I liked that the protagonists were children too, because they definitely react to something like war in a different way than adults, and this juxtaposition between innocence and warfare was interesting.
I found it quite repetitive, especially in the first quarter or so, to the point that I was skimming bits, wanting to get to the next chapter in the hope that something else was going to happen. It did get better as it went along and other things started to happen, and it started to play on the reader's emotions.
I didn't have a huge care for the characters. Ronnie was okay, but I didn't like his brother Mickey (at least for the most part), and Jonnie, who was made out to be the villain, felt too much like a caricature and he annoyed me, and I was starting to dread the chapters he was in. And the female characters sort of felt pointless. Not in the sense that in period women were seen as subordinate, but they didn't bring anything to the story.
It felt too much of a war story to be this big important literary or character exploration, but too much character and background for it to be a great war story. It felt like Jenny was feeing her way through it, like she was trying to force something it wasn't.
All the reviews I have seen have been five star, absolutely raving about it, but I am the anomaly. There are good points to it, it's atmospheric, interesting look at the war through the community rather than the way itself, seeing war through a child's eye etc. But I felt there were too many things happening, trying to fight for the main plot, and it was repetitive and I didn't find it all that exciting. Maybe this is a kids book that should stay with the kids. Maybe in schools. But as an adult, it just felt flat. It was a pleasant and quick read, but I didn't really get it, sadly. But I seem to be the only person to think that way.
June 17, 2025
Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson is a powerful, children’s historical novel that entertained me from the start.
The action is set in London from 1939 and seen from the point of view of a young boy called Ronnie. It is told in the first person and therefore we get to know Ronnie intimately. He is extremely likable, always trying to do the right thing.
We follow Ronnie and his younger brother Mickey and best friend Lugs as they try to navigate life, family and war.
The war was a mixture of excitement and being scared after the Phony War of 1939. “Life in London didn’t change much in those first few weeks… War, it seemed, had forgotten to show up.” Once World War II begins in earnest, there is more than just bombs to navigate as an opportunist turns up, turning Mickey’s head.
We witness those who profit in war, thinking nothing of preying on the misery of others.
Jenny Pearson has shown the danger of the banned group The Blackshirts, whose ideology lined up with Hitler.
As we follow Lugs, we see his fears as a Jewish boy in London. His father is a pacifist but still conscripted into the war as a stretcher bearer. “It was courageous to march onto a battlefield with a gun in your hands, but treading the ground without one… was even braver.” As Ronnie declares “to me, Lug’s Dad was a hero.” The reader can only echo that statement.
We see that people are more than the persona they present on the outside. Inside they may be quite different – as revealed by head teacher Mr Etherington.
Despite the themes of World War II, the Blitz and the Fifth Columnists, the book is highly amusing and had me chuckling at times. “Animals love me”… “What about the time you were bitten on your bum by your neighbour’s dog… Or when you were attacked by that duck down by the river… And then there was that time you got knocked out by that police horse.”
I enjoyed the camaraderie between the boys and loved the loyalty of Ronnie to those he loved.
Shrapnel Boys is perfect for ages eight years and over. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will leave you with one final thought:
“Guess sometimes you have to do what’s right. Even if it scares you.”
The action is set in London from 1939 and seen from the point of view of a young boy called Ronnie. It is told in the first person and therefore we get to know Ronnie intimately. He is extremely likable, always trying to do the right thing.
We follow Ronnie and his younger brother Mickey and best friend Lugs as they try to navigate life, family and war.
The war was a mixture of excitement and being scared after the Phony War of 1939. “Life in London didn’t change much in those first few weeks… War, it seemed, had forgotten to show up.” Once World War II begins in earnest, there is more than just bombs to navigate as an opportunist turns up, turning Mickey’s head.
We witness those who profit in war, thinking nothing of preying on the misery of others.
Jenny Pearson has shown the danger of the banned group The Blackshirts, whose ideology lined up with Hitler.
As we follow Lugs, we see his fears as a Jewish boy in London. His father is a pacifist but still conscripted into the war as a stretcher bearer. “It was courageous to march onto a battlefield with a gun in your hands, but treading the ground without one… was even braver.” As Ronnie declares “to me, Lug’s Dad was a hero.” The reader can only echo that statement.
We see that people are more than the persona they present on the outside. Inside they may be quite different – as revealed by head teacher Mr Etherington.
Despite the themes of World War II, the Blitz and the Fifth Columnists, the book is highly amusing and had me chuckling at times. “Animals love me”… “What about the time you were bitten on your bum by your neighbour’s dog… Or when you were attacked by that duck down by the river… And then there was that time you got knocked out by that police horse.”
I enjoyed the camaraderie between the boys and loved the loyalty of Ronnie to those he loved.
Shrapnel Boys is perfect for ages eight years and over. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will leave you with one final thought:
“Guess sometimes you have to do what’s right. Even if it scares you.”
May 6, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Usborne Publishing for this eCopy to review
Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson is a powerful and moving historical novel set during World War II. The story is told from the perspective of 12-year-old Ronnie Smith, who lives in London with his mother and younger brother, Mickey. As the war begins, Ronnie is both scared and excited by the nightly air raids and the chance to collect shrapnel with his friends.
The plot thickens when Johnny Simmons, a charismatic and mysterious figure, enters their lives under the guise of building an Anderson shelter in their backyard. Ronnie quickly becomes suspicious of Johnny, especially as he starts to win over Mickey and their mother. Determined to uncover Johnny's true intentions, Ronnie and his best friend Lugs embark on a dangerous mission that reveals secrets and tests their courage.
One of the standout features of Shrapnel Boys is its authentic portrayal of life during the Blitz. Pearson does an excellent job of capturing the fear, excitement, and resilience of children living through such tumultuous times. The historical details are meticulously researched, making the setting feel vivid and real.
The characters are well-developed and relatable. Ronnie's determination and bravery, Mickey's vulnerability, and Lugs' loyalty make for a compelling trio. The dynamics between the characters, especially the tension between Ronnie and Johnny, add depth to the story.
Pearson's writing is engaging and accessible, making it a great read for both younger and older audiences. The pacing is perfect, with a good balance of action, suspense, and emotional moments. The themes of friendship, family, and the impact of war are handled with sensitivity and honesty.
Shrapnel Boys is a gripping and heartfelt novel that offers a unique perspective on World War II through the eyes of a young boy. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction or stories of courage and resilience.
Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson is a powerful and moving historical novel set during World War II. The story is told from the perspective of 12-year-old Ronnie Smith, who lives in London with his mother and younger brother, Mickey. As the war begins, Ronnie is both scared and excited by the nightly air raids and the chance to collect shrapnel with his friends.
The plot thickens when Johnny Simmons, a charismatic and mysterious figure, enters their lives under the guise of building an Anderson shelter in their backyard. Ronnie quickly becomes suspicious of Johnny, especially as he starts to win over Mickey and their mother. Determined to uncover Johnny's true intentions, Ronnie and his best friend Lugs embark on a dangerous mission that reveals secrets and tests their courage.
One of the standout features of Shrapnel Boys is its authentic portrayal of life during the Blitz. Pearson does an excellent job of capturing the fear, excitement, and resilience of children living through such tumultuous times. The historical details are meticulously researched, making the setting feel vivid and real.
The characters are well-developed and relatable. Ronnie's determination and bravery, Mickey's vulnerability, and Lugs' loyalty make for a compelling trio. The dynamics between the characters, especially the tension between Ronnie and Johnny, add depth to the story.
Pearson's writing is engaging and accessible, making it a great read for both younger and older audiences. The pacing is perfect, with a good balance of action, suspense, and emotional moments. The themes of friendship, family, and the impact of war are handled with sensitivity and honesty.
Shrapnel Boys is a gripping and heartfelt novel that offers a unique perspective on World War II through the eyes of a young boy. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction or stories of courage and resilience.
April 22, 2025
What a wonderful book! This May marks the 80th Anniversary of VE Day and this is perfectly timed for children with an interest in the period, giving a real sense of life for children at the time. It would make a wonderful read for schools too, with lots of potential areas to discuss.
Ronnie lives in London with his mum and his little brother, Micky. The war has just begun, although not much has happened yet, and many children have been evacuated to the country. Some have decided to stay though, including Ronnie and Micky, and this follows their story as the Blitz begins. It’s beautifully written – their adventure begins when their family becomes involved with a new man and only Ronnie feels there is something about him that can’t be trusted. His little brother, on the other hands, gets drawn in over his head and it’s up to Ronnie and his Shrapnel Boys gang, along with their archrival gang, to uncover the truth and bring him to justice.
There are so many subjects covered, from bullying to what makes a hero, and it’s the more honest image of the Home Front, both good and bad elements, that make it so interesting. Many of the subjects are serious but there’s a huge amount of humour too and Ronnie and Micky are both written so well, far from perfect but hugely endearing. I loved it and very much hope, too, that we see more of Ronnie and Micky in the future.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Ronnie lives in London with his mum and his little brother, Micky. The war has just begun, although not much has happened yet, and many children have been evacuated to the country. Some have decided to stay though, including Ronnie and Micky, and this follows their story as the Blitz begins. It’s beautifully written – their adventure begins when their family becomes involved with a new man and only Ronnie feels there is something about him that can’t be trusted. His little brother, on the other hands, gets drawn in over his head and it’s up to Ronnie and his Shrapnel Boys gang, along with their archrival gang, to uncover the truth and bring him to justice.
There are so many subjects covered, from bullying to what makes a hero, and it’s the more honest image of the Home Front, both good and bad elements, that make it so interesting. Many of the subjects are serious but there’s a huge amount of humour too and Ronnie and Micky are both written so well, far from perfect but hugely endearing. I loved it and very much hope, too, that we see more of Ronnie and Micky in the future.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
May 25, 2025
A hard hitting middle grade novel, set in the run up to WW2 and focusing on Ronnie and Mickey, two boys in London who are not evacuated like so many others. Their dad has been thrown out of the home because of his violence and drinking so the family is struggling even before the outbreak of war. The author does not shy away from the grim realities of living under the threat of bombing raids and in some ways, I wish that this had been the whole focus. Instead, the character of Johnny is introduced. Seemingly a friend to the family, Ronnie soon starts to mistrust him and his motives when he persuades his mum to let Mickey help him in his 'work'. Where is his money coming from and why does he need to keep Mickey out past curfew. The story takes a dark turn into the blackshirt movement and collaboration with the nazis.
There is a humour running through the book which is light relief from the domestic violence, bullying, anti-semitism and, of course, the tragedy of the destruction and loss of life. The book is a very good read and I was impressed by the research that went into it. I'm sure that it will be highly successful, I just feel that too many themes were covered.
There is a humour running through the book which is light relief from the domestic violence, bullying, anti-semitism and, of course, the tragedy of the destruction and loss of life. The book is a very good read and I was impressed by the research that went into it. I'm sure that it will be highly successful, I just feel that too many themes were covered.
April 28, 2025
This is a beautifully written book. Far from being just a book about a group of boys during WWII it draws upon themes of domestic violence, pacifism, anti-semitism, mental health, and a longing for acceptance. As well as all this it's a page-turner with moments of humour and - despite the setting being over 80 years ago, a lot of the content is relatable.
I think it would be a great read for people who enjoy thinking about how life's not black and white, and how there's always more than one side to a story.
I think it would be a great read for people who enjoy thinking about how life's not black and white, and how there's always more than one side to a story.
May 28, 2025
I love children's fiction based during World War Two and I really enjoyed this new viewpoint of childhood during the war. Telling the story of Ronnie and Micky Smith and their pal 'Lugs' of how they race to collect the best bits of shrapnel as the battle soars overhead in the skies, this isn't just an adventure story. It's a story of the darker side during the war: the rise of the blackshirts, looting, the black market and even treason! It's about making life choices, and finding you own path. It's about trust. Loyalty. And about family. I loved this and think it's perfect for fans of Phil Earle and Lesley Parr.
May 27, 2025
cracking read. covers so many issues within a book. WW2 obviously, blitz, anti -Jew, looking for shrapnel, but also the boys living with a single mum after she kicked dad out for being violent (and one boy missing dad more than the other), mum finding a new bloke who is another wrong-un, but in a more sinister way.... getting the boys to join his dirty little gangs - read to find out why, and how he is caught out.
probably the best I've read this year 😀
probably the best I've read this year 😀
March 12, 2025
This is a rather difficult read. The language is highly accessible but the content presents a few challenges. But maybe that is why it is good. Issues such as war and bullying are not issues that we can sweep under the carpet. But like what other reviewers have said, this might be best used in a classroom setting where there can be guided discussion.
June 24, 2025
A good solid read. The powerful story follows two brothers as WW2 starts. As one becomes unknowingly involved with Jonny, an individual involved with the Blackshirts, a fascist party, his brother makes it his mission to free his brother from his grip. Full of drama, adventure, childhood and emotions.
June 14, 2025
A good WWII London Homefront novel that expertly shows what life was like for the kids who didn’t get evacuated from London. A story about brothers, true friendship, and what it means to have moral integrity. Great addition to any library or classroom.
June 8, 2025
This was a riveting read. Really well worked characters. Always loved Jenny Pearson but this is another level. One of the best children’s authors writing at the moment. A future classic I think .
August 3, 2025
Absolutely brilliant. I can't wait to read this to the year 6 class.
September 22, 2025
Loved this. Jenny's humour mixed with a really poignant setting. Loved everypage
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews