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The Lost Children
For readers of Natasha Lester and Pam Jenoff comes a poignant and heart-wrenching tale of two orphans in a world at war, with only each other to rely on—but can their bond survive the shocking truth of their past?
England, 1943 : Home is no longer safe for eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob. Night after night, wailing bombs and screeching planes skim the rooftops overhead. Their mother, Martha, has no choice but to evacuate them to the safety of the countryside, even if it means she might never see them again. At the train station, she gives Jacob a letter, telling him only to read it if they are in danger.
In the country, Molly and Jacob must adjust to life with strangers. But then the unimaginable happens. Martha is killed in an explosion, leaving the twins all alone in the world. Motherless and destitute, the siblings face the grim reality of life in an orphanage.
The time has finally come for Jacob to open the letter. What secret does it hold, and could it change the course of their tragic fate? Because if they are together, they can survive anything—but what if they are torn apart?
England, 1943 : Home is no longer safe for eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob. Night after night, wailing bombs and screeching planes skim the rooftops overhead. Their mother, Martha, has no choice but to evacuate them to the safety of the countryside, even if it means she might never see them again. At the train station, she gives Jacob a letter, telling him only to read it if they are in danger.
In the country, Molly and Jacob must adjust to life with strangers. But then the unimaginable happens. Martha is killed in an explosion, leaving the twins all alone in the world. Motherless and destitute, the siblings face the grim reality of life in an orphanage.
The time has finally come for Jacob to open the letter. What secret does it hold, and could it change the course of their tragic fate? Because if they are together, they can survive anything—but what if they are torn apart?
368 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2020
2528 people are currently reading
4555 people want to read
About the author
Shirley Dickson
6 books205 followersShirley Dickson is the author of The Orphan Sisters, her debut novel.
She lives under the big skies of Northumberland with her husband, family and lucky black cat.
She wrote her first short story at the age of ten for a childrens' magazine competition. She didn't win but was hooked on writing for a lifetime.
For many years she wrote poetry and short stories and got many rejection slips.
Shirley decided to get serious about writing novels when she retired.
She signed with Bookouture in 2018 for a two-book deal. She has written two stirring World war two historical novels.
Shirley says she is a prime example of 'never give up on your dream.'
Follow Shirley on her Facebook 'Shirley Dickson Author' page.
She lives under the big skies of Northumberland with her husband, family and lucky black cat.
She wrote her first short story at the age of ten for a childrens' magazine competition. She didn't win but was hooked on writing for a lifetime.
For many years she wrote poetry and short stories and got many rejection slips.
Shirley decided to get serious about writing novels when she retired.
She signed with Bookouture in 2018 for a two-book deal. She has written two stirring World war two historical novels.
Shirley says she is a prime example of 'never give up on your dream.'
Follow Shirley on her Facebook 'Shirley Dickson Author' page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
October 4, 2020
When eight-year-old twins Jacob and Molly were to be evacuated to the country for the duration of the war, they farewelled their Mam with sorrow. Martha gave Jacob a letter that he wasn’t to open unless he felt they were in trouble, and he wasn’t to read it. Jacob and Molly had lost their gran to a bomb and Martha, although she didn’t want to be parted from them, knew she had to work for the family’s care. The munitions factory where she worked paid well, but they didn’t allow leave while they were so busy helping the war effort.
The twins missed their mother dreadfully, never a day went by that they didn’t think of her. They loved receiving her letters and wrote back straight away. But when more tragedy struck, Jacob and Molly weren’t sure what would happen. They were scared of the future; they had never been apart, and nothing would separate them – would it? What would be the outcome for these two children? They had had terrible misfortune throughout their young lives – would it ever get any better?
The Lost Children is another excellent historical novel from the pen of Shirley Dickson which I thoroughly enjoyed. I’ve loved all this author’s work to date; she never disappoints. Set during WWII England, the heartbreak and despair for so many was appalling. Our two main characters, Molly and Jacob, remained strong and resilient in the face of so much – brave, with their mam’s helpful words frequently in their heads. The Lost Children is one I highly recommend to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The twins missed their mother dreadfully, never a day went by that they didn’t think of her. They loved receiving her letters and wrote back straight away. But when more tragedy struck, Jacob and Molly weren’t sure what would happen. They were scared of the future; they had never been apart, and nothing would separate them – would it? What would be the outcome for these two children? They had had terrible misfortune throughout their young lives – would it ever get any better?
The Lost Children is another excellent historical novel from the pen of Shirley Dickson which I thoroughly enjoyed. I’ve loved all this author’s work to date; she never disappoints. Set during WWII England, the heartbreak and despair for so many was appalling. Our two main characters, Molly and Jacob, remained strong and resilient in the face of so much – brave, with their mam’s helpful words frequently in their heads. The Lost Children is one I highly recommend to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Molly and Jacob are eight year old twins. They are evacuated during WWII to the countryside. Molly and Jacob are determined to stay together. But life in the country is different for the twins. Their resilience is tested several times. Martha, the twins mother, is a single parent. Her mother had passed away in a bomb raid. When Martha had taken the twins to the train station, she hands Jacob a letter. She tells him only to give the letter to someone that they trust to open but only if they are desperate.
This is a heartbreaking read . The twins have a strong bond which helps them overcome some of the obstacles that are put in their way. Molly is disabled and Jacob is very protective of her. A story of love, loss, tragedy and happiness. When Martha is killed in a factory explosion, the twins become orphans. We also meet Mr Bob, Aunty Doris and Aunty Brigit who helped care for the twins. 5hismis my first read from the author but I will look out for her in future.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #ShirleyDickson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Molly and Jacob are eight year old twins. They are evacuated during WWII to the countryside. Molly and Jacob are determined to stay together. But life in the country is different for the twins. Their resilience is tested several times. Martha, the twins mother, is a single parent. Her mother had passed away in a bomb raid. When Martha had taken the twins to the train station, she hands Jacob a letter. She tells him only to give the letter to someone that they trust to open but only if they are desperate.
This is a heartbreaking read. The twins have a strong bond which helps them overcome some point of the obstacles that are put in their way. Molly is disabled and Jacob is very protective of her. A story of love, loss, tragedy and happiness. When Martha is killed in a factory explosion, the twins become orphans. We also meet Mr Bob, Aunty Doris and Aunty Brigit who helped care for the twins. This is my first read from the author but I will look out for her in future.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and all the #ShirleyDickson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Molly and Jacob are eight year old twins. They are evacuated during WWII to the countryside. Molly and Jacob are determined to stay together. But life in the country is different for the twins. Their resilience is tested several times. Martha, the twins mother, is a single parent. Her mother had passed away in a bomb raid. When Martha had taken the twins to the train station, she hands Jacob a letter. She tells him only to give the letter to someone that they trust to open but only if they are desperate.
This is a heartbreaking read . The twins have a strong bond which helps them overcome some of the obstacles that are put in their way. Molly is disabled and Jacob is very protective of her. A story of love, loss, tragedy and happiness. When Martha is killed in a factory explosion, the twins become orphans. We also meet Mr Bob, Aunty Doris and Aunty Brigit who helped care for the twins. 5hismis my first read from the author but I will look out for her in future.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #ShirleyDickson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Molly and Jacob are eight year old twins. They are evacuated during WWII to the countryside. Molly and Jacob are determined to stay together. But life in the country is different for the twins. Their resilience is tested several times. Martha, the twins mother, is a single parent. Her mother had passed away in a bomb raid. When Martha had taken the twins to the train station, she hands Jacob a letter. She tells him only to give the letter to someone that they trust to open but only if they are desperate.
This is a heartbreaking read. The twins have a strong bond which helps them overcome some point of the obstacles that are put in their way. Molly is disabled and Jacob is very protective of her. A story of love, loss, tragedy and happiness. When Martha is killed in a factory explosion, the twins become orphans. We also meet Mr Bob, Aunty Doris and Aunty Brigit who helped care for the twins. This is my first read from the author but I will look out for her in future.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and all the #ShirleyDickson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2020
★★★★★ 4.5 stars
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Shirley Dickson's latest emotional historical tale THE LOST CHILDREN.
I have been a fan of Shirley Dickson since her debut "The Orphan Sisters" . Since then I have followed her book trail of fabulous historical fiction, reading each one and loving them all. Though having the backdrop of the second world war, her books are not about the war but more about those affected during the war...generally orphans or evacuees.
But what I especially love about Shirley's books, while none of them are part of a series, each one includes some characters from previous stories. For example, the orphanage that was much of the focus in her debut has been mentioned in each book since. As well the funeral director Mr Neville who has gained a mention briefly in this book who was so much a part of the first and second books. Now THE LOST CHILDREN features so many characters from her third book from earlier this year "The Outcast Girls" that they each play something of a different part now..and it was was lovely to revisit them once again.
South Shields, 1935: Working as a typist at a garage, Martha Moffat falls under the spell of Edward Fenwick and soon finds herself pregnant. When her condition is discovered, her boss sacks her with immediate effect and her mother is not best pleased either. Unmarried and pregnant, Martha is shipped off to a hospital for unwed mothers for the remainder of her pregnancy. Determined not to grow attached to her child her plan is to have the baby adopted, but then she is surprised when the nurse finds two heartbeats. Her mother, when she tells her, is livid. But when her babies are born, Martha is overwhelmed by a sense of pure love for them...and in that moment, she knows that she cannot give them up.
1943: The war is now into its fourth year with no sign of letting up and Martha works at a munitions factory while her mother looks after her twins Jacob and Molly She hasn't been home for some time to visit and when she manages to get 24 hours leave she is eager to see her now 8 year old twins. But upon arrival she finds South Shields in disarray. The wardens will not let her enter her street which had been decimated by a raid the night before. Her house was now a pile of rubble and her mother gone, who died protecting her children.
Determined her children must remain safe at all costs, Martha decides to evacuate them to the country where they will out of harms way. At the station she thrusts a letter into Jacob's hands, telling him not to open it but to give it to a grown up when they find themselves in trouble. How will I know, her young son asks. You'll know, she whispers to him.
Jacob is the older of the twins with a forthright manner, a stubborn streak and will protect his sister at all costs whereas Molly is the quieter of the two and much shyer. She had a difficult birth, leaving her with a weakness on her left side they called Cerebral Palsy resulting in her having to wear a calliper on her left leg. It often angered Jacob that people thought Molly wasn't bright because of her physical disability but she was much cleverer than him. Other kids often teased her and on such occasions Jacob was quick to jump to her defence. Their mam treated them as equals and that Molly was no different. It made him mad when no one else saw it that way.
The children arrive in Leadburn, a seemingly sleepy village with cows and horses and none of the smell of industry that they have been so used to back home. Not wanting to be separated, and no one wanting to take on a crippled child as soon as they see Molly, the children are billeted to Mrs Merryfield who they call Aunty Brigit. Though wary at first, the children adjust to life in the country and Aunty Brigit is a godsend. She is just like an older version of mam and the children grow to love her. But when Aunty Brigit fails to return from the coal merchant one day, they are shocked to discover she had fallen and broken her hip and is now recuperating in hospital.
So Doris Leadbetter, the postmistress, takes charge of the children and delivers them to somewhat grumpy farmer Bob Nichols, who had recently lost his son in the war and wife to illness. Reluctant to take them on at first, Mr Bob (as the children call him) takes them in until Doris is able to find something more suitable for them. But when the unthinkable happens and the children's mother Martha is killed in an explosion at the munitions factory, they are faced with the possibility of being sent to the orphanage. When Molly overhears a conversation stating as such, she and Jacob devise a plan to escape so they can remain together.
But then Jacob remembers the letter their mam gave him for safekeeping until they were in trouble. Does this constitute "trouble"? And which grown up does he trust enough to give the letter to? And what will it mean when he does? Will he and Molly be separated? But nothing will prepare Jacob or Molly for what is to come when a secret in the letter is revealed.
THE LOST CHILDREN is a heartfelt story of love, loss and tragedy in the face of a turbulent time such as the war. The bond between the twins is so fierce no one could break it and Jacob wouldn't let them. The way he takes care of his sister and looks out for her is endearing and yet when Molly begins to find her inner strength standing up for herself and putting others needs before her own is exemplary. Jacob is the embodiment of the British 'stiff upper lip' that was so abundant of the time and yet he also showed a vulnerability which reminded us that he was just a child.
Alongside Jacob and Molly, I was delighted to return to Leadburn again and revisit Sandra, Frieda, Doris Leadbetter, Bob Nichols and Matthew Carlton, whom we all met in the previous book "The Outcast Girls". I love how Shirley blended their stories with the current one, bringing out a side not previously seen to one particular character that was simply endearing. It reminded me another favourite read of mine, "Goodnight Mr Tom".
A heartwarming story that is also heartbreaking, THE LOST CHILDREN will have you reaching for the tissues throughout but by the end you will be smiling. It's an emotional rollercoaster ride from beginning to end but one that will leave you satisfied.
A wonderful heartfelt tale that Shirley Dickson has delivered yet again! Recommended for fans of feelgood wartime historical fiction.
I would like to thank #ShirleyDickson, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheLostChildren in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Shirley Dickson's latest emotional historical tale THE LOST CHILDREN.
I have been a fan of Shirley Dickson since her debut "The Orphan Sisters" . Since then I have followed her book trail of fabulous historical fiction, reading each one and loving them all. Though having the backdrop of the second world war, her books are not about the war but more about those affected during the war...generally orphans or evacuees.
But what I especially love about Shirley's books, while none of them are part of a series, each one includes some characters from previous stories. For example, the orphanage that was much of the focus in her debut has been mentioned in each book since. As well the funeral director Mr Neville who has gained a mention briefly in this book who was so much a part of the first and second books. Now THE LOST CHILDREN features so many characters from her third book from earlier this year "The Outcast Girls" that they each play something of a different part now..and it was was lovely to revisit them once again.
South Shields, 1935: Working as a typist at a garage, Martha Moffat falls under the spell of Edward Fenwick and soon finds herself pregnant. When her condition is discovered, her boss sacks her with immediate effect and her mother is not best pleased either. Unmarried and pregnant, Martha is shipped off to a hospital for unwed mothers for the remainder of her pregnancy. Determined not to grow attached to her child her plan is to have the baby adopted, but then she is surprised when the nurse finds two heartbeats. Her mother, when she tells her, is livid. But when her babies are born, Martha is overwhelmed by a sense of pure love for them...and in that moment, she knows that she cannot give them up.
1943: The war is now into its fourth year with no sign of letting up and Martha works at a munitions factory while her mother looks after her twins Jacob and Molly She hasn't been home for some time to visit and when she manages to get 24 hours leave she is eager to see her now 8 year old twins. But upon arrival she finds South Shields in disarray. The wardens will not let her enter her street which had been decimated by a raid the night before. Her house was now a pile of rubble and her mother gone, who died protecting her children.
Determined her children must remain safe at all costs, Martha decides to evacuate them to the country where they will out of harms way. At the station she thrusts a letter into Jacob's hands, telling him not to open it but to give it to a grown up when they find themselves in trouble. How will I know, her young son asks. You'll know, she whispers to him.
Jacob is the older of the twins with a forthright manner, a stubborn streak and will protect his sister at all costs whereas Molly is the quieter of the two and much shyer. She had a difficult birth, leaving her with a weakness on her left side they called Cerebral Palsy resulting in her having to wear a calliper on her left leg. It often angered Jacob that people thought Molly wasn't bright because of her physical disability but she was much cleverer than him. Other kids often teased her and on such occasions Jacob was quick to jump to her defence. Their mam treated them as equals and that Molly was no different. It made him mad when no one else saw it that way.
The children arrive in Leadburn, a seemingly sleepy village with cows and horses and none of the smell of industry that they have been so used to back home. Not wanting to be separated, and no one wanting to take on a crippled child as soon as they see Molly, the children are billeted to Mrs Merryfield who they call Aunty Brigit. Though wary at first, the children adjust to life in the country and Aunty Brigit is a godsend. She is just like an older version of mam and the children grow to love her. But when Aunty Brigit fails to return from the coal merchant one day, they are shocked to discover she had fallen and broken her hip and is now recuperating in hospital.
So Doris Leadbetter, the postmistress, takes charge of the children and delivers them to somewhat grumpy farmer Bob Nichols, who had recently lost his son in the war and wife to illness. Reluctant to take them on at first, Mr Bob (as the children call him) takes them in until Doris is able to find something more suitable for them. But when the unthinkable happens and the children's mother Martha is killed in an explosion at the munitions factory, they are faced with the possibility of being sent to the orphanage. When Molly overhears a conversation stating as such, she and Jacob devise a plan to escape so they can remain together.
But then Jacob remembers the letter their mam gave him for safekeeping until they were in trouble. Does this constitute "trouble"? And which grown up does he trust enough to give the letter to? And what will it mean when he does? Will he and Molly be separated? But nothing will prepare Jacob or Molly for what is to come when a secret in the letter is revealed.
THE LOST CHILDREN is a heartfelt story of love, loss and tragedy in the face of a turbulent time such as the war. The bond between the twins is so fierce no one could break it and Jacob wouldn't let them. The way he takes care of his sister and looks out for her is endearing and yet when Molly begins to find her inner strength standing up for herself and putting others needs before her own is exemplary. Jacob is the embodiment of the British 'stiff upper lip' that was so abundant of the time and yet he also showed a vulnerability which reminded us that he was just a child.
Alongside Jacob and Molly, I was delighted to return to Leadburn again and revisit Sandra, Frieda, Doris Leadbetter, Bob Nichols and Matthew Carlton, whom we all met in the previous book "The Outcast Girls". I love how Shirley blended their stories with the current one, bringing out a side not previously seen to one particular character that was simply endearing. It reminded me another favourite read of mine, "Goodnight Mr Tom".
A heartwarming story that is also heartbreaking, THE LOST CHILDREN will have you reaching for the tissues throughout but by the end you will be smiling. It's an emotional rollercoaster ride from beginning to end but one that will leave you satisfied.
A wonderful heartfelt tale that Shirley Dickson has delivered yet again! Recommended for fans of feelgood wartime historical fiction.
I would like to thank #ShirleyDickson, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheLostChildren in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
September 27, 2020
Like most WWII historical fiction novels, they are all pretty much heartbreaking. The Lost Children is no exception. Set around the Operation Pied Piper years, The Lost Children focuses on twins Jacob and Molly Moffat, who, born out of wedlock are forced to grow up in a war torn country. Struggling to survive, Jacob and Molly must face unimaginable hardships that are only exacerbated by Molly’s disability.
The Lost Children is very well written and will certainly please any fan of the historical fiction genre. The storyline is engaging, emotional, and will stir your heart. I felt hate, love, and disdain. A four star emotive read.
I received a digital ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The Lost Children is very well written and will certainly please any fan of the historical fiction genre. The storyline is engaging, emotional, and will stir your heart. I felt hate, love, and disdain. A four star emotive read.
I received a digital ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 1, 2020
This is the first book I have read by Shirley Dickson, but it won't be my last. This is a heartbreaking story set during WWII. This story is not about the was itself, but how it affects those left behind. In this story we meet eight year old twins, Molly and Jacob. They were born out of wedlock and after war breaks out, their mother leaves them with their granny while she goes to work in a munitions factory. A bombing in their hometown kills their granny and their mother finally decides to evacuate them to the countryside. Jacob and Molly face unimaginable hardships that are only worsened by Molly’s disability caused by cerebral palsy. This is their story.
The Lost Children is very well written and seemed well researched. The characters are well developed. I loved reading about the love and support that Jacob and Molly gave each other. I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug them both and bring them home with me. The secondary characters were also wonderful. Seeing the relationships between the various residents and the twins grow was beautiful. This story was full of ups and downs. It seemed like things were going well, then there was another situation that knocked them for a loop. I can't believe how strong they were. This story had my emotions all over the place. I felt sympathy, love, disdain, anger, excitement and satisfaction. The setting and descriptions were well written and allowed me to visualize what what was happening. This is a story that will engage you from start to finish. One that lovers of Historical Fiction will certainly enjoy. I recommend this one. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
The Lost Children is very well written and seemed well researched. The characters are well developed. I loved reading about the love and support that Jacob and Molly gave each other. I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug them both and bring them home with me. The secondary characters were also wonderful. Seeing the relationships between the various residents and the twins grow was beautiful. This story was full of ups and downs. It seemed like things were going well, then there was another situation that knocked them for a loop. I can't believe how strong they were. This story had my emotions all over the place. I felt sympathy, love, disdain, anger, excitement and satisfaction. The setting and descriptions were well written and allowed me to visualize what what was happening. This is a story that will engage you from start to finish. One that lovers of Historical Fiction will certainly enjoy. I recommend this one. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
December 13, 2022
Immersive, heart-tugging, and sweet!
The Lost Children is a captivating, heartwrenching tale set in England during 1943 that takes you into the lives of eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob who, after losing their grandmother and with their mother away working to make ends meet, are sent to the British countryside to live for the duration of the war, until tragedy strikes once again and more permanent lodgings, security, and love are required.
The prose is vivid and smooth. The characters are resilient, brave, and endearing. And the plot is a poignant tale about life, loss, family, secrets, separation, desperation, tragedy, grief, friendship, physical disabilities, and the horrors and hardships of war.
Overall, The Lost Children is a hopeful, heartwarming, moving tale by Dickson that is a wonderful choice for anyone who would love to be swept away into a well-written historical fiction novel told uniquely from the children’s perspectives.
Thank you to Forever and Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Lost Children is a captivating, heartwrenching tale set in England during 1943 that takes you into the lives of eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob who, after losing their grandmother and with their mother away working to make ends meet, are sent to the British countryside to live for the duration of the war, until tragedy strikes once again and more permanent lodgings, security, and love are required.
The prose is vivid and smooth. The characters are resilient, brave, and endearing. And the plot is a poignant tale about life, loss, family, secrets, separation, desperation, tragedy, grief, friendship, physical disabilities, and the horrors and hardships of war.
Overall, The Lost Children is a hopeful, heartwarming, moving tale by Dickson that is a wonderful choice for anyone who would love to be swept away into a well-written historical fiction novel told uniquely from the children’s perspectives.
Thank you to Forever and Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2021
Thank goodness there were no graphic descriptions of fighting and nazi references were few. Sweet but predictable and a bit dull. Struggled to finish.
September 7, 2022
The Lost Children is a story that is simple, yet stirring. The war rages on, shrouding this heartbreaking narrative in bleakness, showing yet another side to this monstrous war. With multiple narratives, both young and old, these voices lend a sincere depth to an otherwise simplistic tale.
Molly Moffat finds herself in a tough situation. After a night spent with the bosses son Molly finds herself in the family way, and on the day she is going to tell the man she loves about the baby growing inside her, she is fired by her boss, when he sees that she is pregnant. Having no other options she is sent away to give birth, and it is during her time away that she realizes she is having twins, and her heart knows there is no way she can give them up.
From their conception, Jacob and Molly have a hard life, but they have each other, and that’s all that matters. The Lost Children is the story of these two sweet cherubs and their harrowing journey to find where they belong. They both have such bravery, but Jacob is clearly wise beyond his years, having seen so much in his short life that many won’t see in an entire lifetime, and feeling the burden of not only caring for his own well-being but his sisters as well, as she has a handicap.
There is so much loss in this novel that it’s almost unreal, but such is how things were during the second world war. I hate how so many lost so much during this time, the war affecting every single person in one way or another, and for what? My blood boils when I think about the injustices from this time, and this story is just another example how far reaching this war went.
The heartache compounds as the story rolls on, one event after another that suppresses your psyche with sadness, wondering how much more loss can these children take. There is a sweet love story that is a nice breeze through an otherwise heavy story, a vital breath of fresh air.
My heart belonged to Jacob and Molly throughout and I craved to see these two get their happily ever after. The ending was predictable but appreciated, a contented sigh leaving my lips as I closed this novel. Shirley Dickson did a masterful job of putting you there into these characters minds, feeling what they feel, and seeing what they see. It was truly an immersive experience that I will not soon forget.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the publisher through NetGalley. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
Molly Moffat finds herself in a tough situation. After a night spent with the bosses son Molly finds herself in the family way, and on the day she is going to tell the man she loves about the baby growing inside her, she is fired by her boss, when he sees that she is pregnant. Having no other options she is sent away to give birth, and it is during her time away that she realizes she is having twins, and her heart knows there is no way she can give them up.
From their conception, Jacob and Molly have a hard life, but they have each other, and that’s all that matters. The Lost Children is the story of these two sweet cherubs and their harrowing journey to find where they belong. They both have such bravery, but Jacob is clearly wise beyond his years, having seen so much in his short life that many won’t see in an entire lifetime, and feeling the burden of not only caring for his own well-being but his sisters as well, as she has a handicap.
There is so much loss in this novel that it’s almost unreal, but such is how things were during the second world war. I hate how so many lost so much during this time, the war affecting every single person in one way or another, and for what? My blood boils when I think about the injustices from this time, and this story is just another example how far reaching this war went.
The heartache compounds as the story rolls on, one event after another that suppresses your psyche with sadness, wondering how much more loss can these children take. There is a sweet love story that is a nice breeze through an otherwise heavy story, a vital breath of fresh air.
My heart belonged to Jacob and Molly throughout and I craved to see these two get their happily ever after. The ending was predictable but appreciated, a contented sigh leaving my lips as I closed this novel. Shirley Dickson did a masterful job of putting you there into these characters minds, feeling what they feel, and seeing what they see. It was truly an immersive experience that I will not soon forget.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the publisher through NetGalley. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
September 16, 2020
Shirley Dickson does it again. The Lost Children is a heartbreaking story of Jacob and Molly, twins born out of wedlock to a young English mother. Determined to keep them safe from the bombings over England during WWII, their mother sends them to safety to in the countryside. There, they meet wonderful people who make them feel at home even though they’re far away from their real one. When the war claims the life of their mother, the twins are in limbo as they aren’t sure what will happen to them once the war is over.
When reading about the children refugees in the English countryside during the war, we’re often told of stories with no great times. The author discovered that just as there are many bad experiences for these children, she also learns that there are just as many good ones. Dickson paints a picture of a good experience for the children. They are taken in by strangers and loved. I love the emotional roller coaster the children go on during this book. Kids back then went through so much and even though this is fiction, it’s paints a very realistic picture and at a crazy time like this, restores your faith that there are good people out there willing to help out their fellow citizens.
Thank you to Shirley and NetGalley for the chance to read this a little early. I loved it!
When reading about the children refugees in the English countryside during the war, we’re often told of stories with no great times. The author discovered that just as there are many bad experiences for these children, she also learns that there are just as many good ones. Dickson paints a picture of a good experience for the children. They are taken in by strangers and loved. I love the emotional roller coaster the children go on during this book. Kids back then went through so much and even though this is fiction, it’s paints a very realistic picture and at a crazy time like this, restores your faith that there are good people out there willing to help out their fellow citizens.
Thank you to Shirley and NetGalley for the chance to read this a little early. I loved it!
October 7, 2020
While this is a historical read, it is so much more than that. It’s about sorrows, loss, war torn countries, kindness, love and resilience.
Jacob and Molly are the most beautiful and resilient characters I have ever met.
After their house is bombed out and their grandmother is killed, their mom sends them to the country for a war free life... with a promise to be reunited after the war. Their mom hands Jacob a letter saying to only open in an emergency . An emergency happens and the letter is opened and a secret is revealed and while it may be a good thing it also may not.
This book was a beautiful story with such memorable characters.
I highly recommend this book.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Jacob and Molly are the most beautiful and resilient characters I have ever met.
After their house is bombed out and their grandmother is killed, their mom sends them to the country for a war free life... with a promise to be reunited after the war. Their mom hands Jacob a letter saying to only open in an emergency . An emergency happens and the letter is opened and a secret is revealed and while it may be a good thing it also may not.
This book was a beautiful story with such memorable characters.
I highly recommend this book.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 28, 2020
Book Description:
As they walked towards the railway station, their mother took an envelope from her handbag. ‘I want you to keep this somewhere safe.’
‘What’s in the letter?’
‘Listen carefully. You’re never to open it unless you or your sister are in real trouble. Promise me.’
England, 1943: Home is no longer safe for eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob. Night after night wailing bombs and screeching planes skim the rooftops overhead. They cradle each other, shivering in terror, not knowing if they will live to see dawn. Their mother, Martha, has no choice but to evacuate them to the safety of the countryside.
At the train station, Martha bites back tears as she says goodbye to her precious children. Knowing she might never see them again, she gives Jacob a letter, pressing the envelope into his hands and telling him to only read it if they are in danger.
In the country, Molly and Jacob must adjust to life with strangers. Every night they dream of returning home to the arms of their beloved mother. But then the unimaginable happens. Martha is killed in an explosion, leaving the twins all alone in the world.
The war has robbed Molly and Jacob of everything – all they have left is one another. Motherless and destitute, they face the grim reality of life in an orphanage. The time has finally come for Jacob to open the letter. What secret does it hold, and could it change the course of their tragic fate? Because if they are together, they can survive anything – but what if they are torn apart?
From the bestselling author of The Orphan Sisters comes an utterly heartbreaking and unforgettable tale of two children who must lean on each other in a time of tragedy and learn the shocking truth of their past. Fans of Wives of War, Lisa Wingate and Diney Costeloe will be swept away by this sublime World War Two novel.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Lost Children' by Shirley Dickson.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 30th September 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I also wanted a change from my typical genre of crime fiction and this looked perfect. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 32 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Jacob and Molly. I enjoy books written in third person as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book is based in the UK. I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times.
This book is very well written with excellent descriptions that really made the story come alive for me. I think that the author did quite alot of research into what things were like during the war which is nice to see as sometimes you get books based around the war with several inaccurate events.
I would describe the storyline like a roller-coaster. The first 15% was quite slow while your being taken to the top and then all of a sudden you are swept of your feet going speeding towards twists and turns, several that you won't see coming!! It is filled with love, war, loss and heartbreak and shows the beautiful and strong relationship between Jacob and Molly. I absolutely adored the ending!!
THE characters are all strong and very well developed and I really enjoyed reading how they developed as individuals and the relationships that were formed.
Overall an absolutely beautifully written historical war novel that will sweep you off your feet and fill you with a wide range of emotions
Genres covered include Sagas, Historical Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a story that will stay with you for a long time.
374 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheLostChildren #ShirleyDickson #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@ShirleyDickson @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Shirley Dickson was born and grew up in the seaside town of South Shields. She left school at fifteen and can’t remember a time when she didn’t write. She entered her first short story competition in ‘School Friend’ when she was eleven. After Shirley retired from auxiliary nursing, she was able to devote her time to writing.
After living in various locations, she settled under the big skies of Northumberland and has lived with her husband in the same house for over forty years. Shirley has three daughters and four grandchildren and likes nothing better than family gatherings.
https://twitter.com/ShirleyDWriter
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/2Hm3yvP
Apple: https://apple.co/2RO1I99
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3hSS9jS
Google: https://bit.ly/2RQcg7F
--
As they walked towards the railway station, their mother took an envelope from her handbag. ‘I want you to keep this somewhere safe.’
‘What’s in the letter?’
‘Listen carefully. You’re never to open it unless you or your sister are in real trouble. Promise me.’
England, 1943: Home is no longer safe for eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob. Night after night wailing bombs and screeching planes skim the rooftops overhead. They cradle each other, shivering in terror, not knowing if they will live to see dawn. Their mother, Martha, has no choice but to evacuate them to the safety of the countryside.
At the train station, Martha bites back tears as she says goodbye to her precious children. Knowing she might never see them again, she gives Jacob a letter, pressing the envelope into his hands and telling him to only read it if they are in danger.
In the country, Molly and Jacob must adjust to life with strangers. Every night they dream of returning home to the arms of their beloved mother. But then the unimaginable happens. Martha is killed in an explosion, leaving the twins all alone in the world.
The war has robbed Molly and Jacob of everything – all they have left is one another. Motherless and destitute, they face the grim reality of life in an orphanage. The time has finally come for Jacob to open the letter. What secret does it hold, and could it change the course of their tragic fate? Because if they are together, they can survive anything – but what if they are torn apart?
From the bestselling author of The Orphan Sisters comes an utterly heartbreaking and unforgettable tale of two children who must lean on each other in a time of tragedy and learn the shocking truth of their past. Fans of Wives of War, Lisa Wingate and Diney Costeloe will be swept away by this sublime World War Two novel.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Lost Children' by Shirley Dickson.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 30th September 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I also wanted a change from my typical genre of crime fiction and this looked perfect. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 32 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Jacob and Molly. I enjoy books written in third person as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book is based in the UK. I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times.
This book is very well written with excellent descriptions that really made the story come alive for me. I think that the author did quite alot of research into what things were like during the war which is nice to see as sometimes you get books based around the war with several inaccurate events.
I would describe the storyline like a roller-coaster. The first 15% was quite slow while your being taken to the top and then all of a sudden you are swept of your feet going speeding towards twists and turns, several that you won't see coming!! It is filled with love, war, loss and heartbreak and shows the beautiful and strong relationship between Jacob and Molly. I absolutely adored the ending!!
THE characters are all strong and very well developed and I really enjoyed reading how they developed as individuals and the relationships that were formed.
Overall an absolutely beautifully written historical war novel that will sweep you off your feet and fill you with a wide range of emotions
Genres covered include Sagas, Historical Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a story that will stay with you for a long time.
374 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheLostChildren #ShirleyDickson #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@ShirleyDickson @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
Shirley Dickson was born and grew up in the seaside town of South Shields. She left school at fifteen and can’t remember a time when she didn’t write. She entered her first short story competition in ‘School Friend’ when she was eleven. After Shirley retired from auxiliary nursing, she was able to devote her time to writing.
After living in various locations, she settled under the big skies of Northumberland and has lived with her husband in the same house for over forty years. Shirley has three daughters and four grandchildren and likes nothing better than family gatherings.
https://twitter.com/ShirleyDWriter
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/2Hm3yvP
Apple: https://apple.co/2RO1I99
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3hSS9jS
Google: https://bit.ly/2RQcg7F
--
March 28, 2023
This is for a book club. It kept my interest- I had not thought about what it must have been like for the children evacuated from London in World War Two from their perspective. It was written in a young adult style, but was good book.
April 28, 2025
omg i loved this so much i wanted to cry at the end
August 11, 2025
really enjoyed the writing style but it was just so heartbreaking, pretty much every character dies. sweet ending tho - defo worth reading the epilogue!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2020
A story of love and resiliency.
Martha Maddox has a good job as a typist but after a fling she finds herself pregnant and fired. At first she plans to give up the baby but then when she has twins her mother steps in and they decide to raise Jacob and Molly together and tell the children that their father is dead. It is war time and Martha sends the children out to the country but before they part she gives Jacob a letter and tells him when they are in trouble to give it to the person they trust most and above all else take care of his sister. They are moved to the town of Leadburn and they are taken care of by various people in the town. All the characters were wonderful. Sometimes I forgot that Jacob and Molly were only eight years old. They had suffered through so much and maintained their closeness in spite of everything. They developed close relationships with Aunty Bridgit and Aunty Doris and Mr. Bob. The countryside during the war was very well depicted with the work on the farms and the Land Girls that the children became friends with. I experienced a lot of emotions reading this. There were lots of ups and downs in the story but all in all very satisfying. I would definitely recommend this to my friends.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book. These are my own opinions.
Martha Maddox has a good job as a typist but after a fling she finds herself pregnant and fired. At first she plans to give up the baby but then when she has twins her mother steps in and they decide to raise Jacob and Molly together and tell the children that their father is dead. It is war time and Martha sends the children out to the country but before they part she gives Jacob a letter and tells him when they are in trouble to give it to the person they trust most and above all else take care of his sister. They are moved to the town of Leadburn and they are taken care of by various people in the town. All the characters were wonderful. Sometimes I forgot that Jacob and Molly were only eight years old. They had suffered through so much and maintained their closeness in spite of everything. They developed close relationships with Aunty Bridgit and Aunty Doris and Mr. Bob. The countryside during the war was very well depicted with the work on the farms and the Land Girls that the children became friends with. I experienced a lot of emotions reading this. There were lots of ups and downs in the story but all in all very satisfying. I would definitely recommend this to my friends.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book. These are my own opinions.
March 13, 2021
Too many bad things happen to these children to be plausible. Can guess the ending early on. Pedestrian writing. Do not recommend 😢
September 25, 2020
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. Historical fiction has become one of my favorite types of books to read, especially ones based on WWII. This book was very emotional. So much tragedy and sadness. My heart constantly broke for Jacob and Molly....so much loss and heartache for such young children. I enjoyed all the characters in this book and I think the author did a great job describing each of them and giving us details into each of their lives. Of course I loved Molly and Jacob but I also really loved Mr. Bob, Aunty Doris and Aunty Brigit. The way they cared for these two children who have lost so many people in their short lives...it was just such an emotional story. I definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2020
The Lost Children is a wonderful, though very emotional, piece of historical fiction that will stay with me for a long time.
Firstly it was great to have a book from a children’s point of view for a change and I so enjoyed following the twins on their journey. I loved the vivid descriptions of the northern village the twins find themselves in which made me feel like I was actually there, experiencing everything alongside them. The sense of community was beautiful to read about and I liked that everyone helped each other, often making sacrifices for other people. It was heartwarming to see the villagers include the twins into their lives and how they settled in so quickly.
This is a very emotional books which made me sob at times. The twins go through a lot of heartache throughout the story and I often found myself wishing I could put my arm round them. Having said that the book isn’t bogged down in sadness and the over all feeling I got from this book is actually an uplifting one.
Overall I really enjoyed this fast paced, easy read which was the first book I’ve read from this author. I’ll definitely be recommending this book to others and look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Huge thanks to Sarah Hardy for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Bookouture for my copy of this book via Netgalley.
Firstly it was great to have a book from a children’s point of view for a change and I so enjoyed following the twins on their journey. I loved the vivid descriptions of the northern village the twins find themselves in which made me feel like I was actually there, experiencing everything alongside them. The sense of community was beautiful to read about and I liked that everyone helped each other, often making sacrifices for other people. It was heartwarming to see the villagers include the twins into their lives and how they settled in so quickly.
This is a very emotional books which made me sob at times. The twins go through a lot of heartache throughout the story and I often found myself wishing I could put my arm round them. Having said that the book isn’t bogged down in sadness and the over all feeling I got from this book is actually an uplifting one.
Overall I really enjoyed this fast paced, easy read which was the first book I’ve read from this author. I’ll definitely be recommending this book to others and look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Huge thanks to Sarah Hardy for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Bookouture for my copy of this book via Netgalley.
September 22, 2020
4.5 Stars
The Lost Children is a hauntingly beautiful story about single mother, Martha, who's last resort is to leave her twin children, Jacob and Molly, to evacuate to the country, with a letter to be read as a last resort! The twins find country life to be very different than what they are used to, but are able to use their resiliency to stay together and survive. The book takes us on their adventures and trials as they try to survive the war.
I am a huge fan of Historical Fiction, and this story reminds me why I love it so much! Ms. Dickson had me captivated from the first page with a beautiful yet heartbreaking story. This is one the type of book that keeps you glued to the pages to finish the story, but at the same time, you never want the book to end.... if you are not a Historical Fiction fan, I encourage you to give it a shot. This is the kind of book that will make you a booklover.
Thank you to Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my review and honest opinion.
The Lost Children is a hauntingly beautiful story about single mother, Martha, who's last resort is to leave her twin children, Jacob and Molly, to evacuate to the country, with a letter to be read as a last resort! The twins find country life to be very different than what they are used to, but are able to use their resiliency to stay together and survive. The book takes us on their adventures and trials as they try to survive the war.
I am a huge fan of Historical Fiction, and this story reminds me why I love it so much! Ms. Dickson had me captivated from the first page with a beautiful yet heartbreaking story. This is one the type of book that keeps you glued to the pages to finish the story, but at the same time, you never want the book to end.... if you are not a Historical Fiction fan, I encourage you to give it a shot. This is the kind of book that will make you a booklover.
Thank you to Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my review and honest opinion.
October 7, 2020
A heartbreaking story.
A very moving story of losses due to World War II, the evacuation of children and the consequences.
Twins, Molly and Jacob are sent to the country not knowing if they would ever see their mother again.
Well written and emotional read, I have no hesitation in recommending this to lovers of WW2 sagas.
A very moving story of losses due to World War II, the evacuation of children and the consequences.
Twins, Molly and Jacob are sent to the country not knowing if they would ever see their mother again.
Well written and emotional read, I have no hesitation in recommending this to lovers of WW2 sagas.
March 11, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! It started out and I thought I had the plot pretty well figured out but there were enough twists in the story to make the ending very unexpected.
April 2, 2021
Good book and characters. Easy to read.
February 27, 2023
This book took a piece of my heart! I would encourage everyone to read it.
November 19, 2020
I received this book "The Lost Children" from NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own. This book was a bit predictable for me. Parts of the book were good and parts were boring and dragging. The end was rushed. Overall an okay book.
September 24, 2020
Another wonderful book from Shirley Dickson kept me hooked from start to finish and i can highly recommend this book 5*
October 1, 2020
An unputdownable read
Heartbreakingly beautiful
It will pull at your heartstrings
Tissues needed definitely
1935 south shields north east England
Martha Moffat works for the Fenwick at the garage in Hake Street and is dismissed after the father Edward finds her in the family way. The future looks bleak,and what is her mam going to say, money is tight so the only solution is adoption. She is taking into the mother's hospital in Newcastle where she finds she is having twins after the birth of her son and daughter her mam has a change of heart and wants them all home. It's won't be easy bringing up Molly and Jacob especially as its now the breakout of WW2. Martha is working in ordnance factory as a munitionette living in a hostal while her mam lives in the tiny flat with the twins till tragedy strikes and her mam is killed, she has no choice but to evacuate them both so she can carry on working. Molly has cerebral palsy with physical difficulties but both children have to stay together and end up in Leadburn Northumberland with Mrs Merryfield Aunty Brigit a lovely village and things run smoothly and both are settled and happy. All the characters are brought to life and especially old characters that come in from this author's other three book that we recognise.
I really had to keep pausing this book, to shed lots of tears, its truly is a remarkable story as we follow the twins throughout the war is there happiness ahead? You must read it you won't be disappointed.
One of the best.
Heartbreakingly beautiful
It will pull at your heartstrings
Tissues needed definitely
1935 south shields north east England
Martha Moffat works for the Fenwick at the garage in Hake Street and is dismissed after the father Edward finds her in the family way. The future looks bleak,and what is her mam going to say, money is tight so the only solution is adoption. She is taking into the mother's hospital in Newcastle where she finds she is having twins after the birth of her son and daughter her mam has a change of heart and wants them all home. It's won't be easy bringing up Molly and Jacob especially as its now the breakout of WW2. Martha is working in ordnance factory as a munitionette living in a hostal while her mam lives in the tiny flat with the twins till tragedy strikes and her mam is killed, she has no choice but to evacuate them both so she can carry on working. Molly has cerebral palsy with physical difficulties but both children have to stay together and end up in Leadburn Northumberland with Mrs Merryfield Aunty Brigit a lovely village and things run smoothly and both are settled and happy. All the characters are brought to life and especially old characters that come in from this author's other three book that we recognise.
I really had to keep pausing this book, to shed lots of tears, its truly is a remarkable story as we follow the twins throughout the war is there happiness ahead? You must read it you won't be disappointed.
One of the best.
November 30, 2021
My rating 3.5
England, 1943: Home is no longer safe for eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob. Night after night wailing bombs and screeching planes skim the rooftops overhead. They cradle each other, shivering in terror, not knowing if they will live to see dawn. Their mother, Martha, has no choice but to evacuate them to the safety of the countryside.
At the train station, Martha bites back tears as she says goodbye to her precious children. Knowing she might never see them again, she gives Jacob a letter, pressing the envelope into his hands and telling him to only read it if they are in danger.
In the country, Molly and Jacob must adjust to life with strangers. Every night they dream of returning home to the arms of their beloved mother. But then the unimaginable happens. Martha is killed in an explosion, leaving the twins all alone in the world.
The war has robbed Molly and Jacob of everything – all they have left is one another. Motherless and destitute, they face the grim reality of life in an orphanage. The time has finally come for Jacob to open the letter. What secret does it hold, and could it change the course of their tragic fate? Because if they are together, they can survive anything – but what if they are torn apart?
I enjoyed reading this book and another piece of history about WWII. It wasn't all time great lit but an enjoyable read. Apparently this is the 4th book of a series by this author but I haven't read the previous book and it worked well as a stand-alone
England, 1943: Home is no longer safe for eight-year-old twins Molly and Jacob. Night after night wailing bombs and screeching planes skim the rooftops overhead. They cradle each other, shivering in terror, not knowing if they will live to see dawn. Their mother, Martha, has no choice but to evacuate them to the safety of the countryside.
At the train station, Martha bites back tears as she says goodbye to her precious children. Knowing she might never see them again, she gives Jacob a letter, pressing the envelope into his hands and telling him to only read it if they are in danger.
In the country, Molly and Jacob must adjust to life with strangers. Every night they dream of returning home to the arms of their beloved mother. But then the unimaginable happens. Martha is killed in an explosion, leaving the twins all alone in the world.
The war has robbed Molly and Jacob of everything – all they have left is one another. Motherless and destitute, they face the grim reality of life in an orphanage. The time has finally come for Jacob to open the letter. What secret does it hold, and could it change the course of their tragic fate? Because if they are together, they can survive anything – but what if they are torn apart?
I enjoyed reading this book and another piece of history about WWII. It wasn't all time great lit but an enjoyable read. Apparently this is the 4th book of a series by this author but I haven't read the previous book and it worked well as a stand-alone
October 12, 2020
The Lost Children by Shirley Dickson is a heart wrenching historical novel set in the North East of England mainly during World War II.
The novel shows the bond of twins – a boy and a girl born in 1935. Theirs is a story of searching to belong as they are evacuated in 1943.
Shirley Dickson has created some marvellous and realistic characters. The twins will lodge in your heart as their self-sacrificing love and unbreakable bond shines through.
There is a community spirit in the village where everyone knows everyone’s business, and pulls together when there is a need. There is much warmth and some tough love when needed.
The reader witnesses how attitudes have changed since the 1930’s when unmarried mothers were frowned upon and encouraged to give up their babies for adoption. It was always the women who suffered and never the men who had taken advantage of them.
There are some truly horrifying attitudes towards disability too. Whilst many adults treat eight year old Mollie (who has cerebral palsy and wears a calliper) with kindness, there are some who just want to hide her away in a home. Bullies at school are unkind too. Mollie’s indomitable spirit and bravery really make the reader just want to pick her up and love her.
I absolutely adored The Lost Children. Shirley Dickson is a new author to me but I want to read more, more, more.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The novel shows the bond of twins – a boy and a girl born in 1935. Theirs is a story of searching to belong as they are evacuated in 1943.
Shirley Dickson has created some marvellous and realistic characters. The twins will lodge in your heart as their self-sacrificing love and unbreakable bond shines through.
There is a community spirit in the village where everyone knows everyone’s business, and pulls together when there is a need. There is much warmth and some tough love when needed.
The reader witnesses how attitudes have changed since the 1930’s when unmarried mothers were frowned upon and encouraged to give up their babies for adoption. It was always the women who suffered and never the men who had taken advantage of them.
There are some truly horrifying attitudes towards disability too. Whilst many adults treat eight year old Mollie (who has cerebral palsy and wears a calliper) with kindness, there are some who just want to hide her away in a home. Bullies at school are unkind too. Mollie’s indomitable spirit and bravery really make the reader just want to pick her up and love her.
I absolutely adored The Lost Children. Shirley Dickson is a new author to me but I want to read more, more, more.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 7, 2022
Martha becomes pregnant with the man she is working with and is fired when her secret is discovered. She is afraid to tell her mother as she knows she will be disappointed. Martha's father died in WWI and her mother has always done the very best she could for Martha and was so pleased she had found a good job but it all came to an end. Martha agrees to give up her child until the twins are born. When both Martha's mother see the two babies, she agrees they need to do whatever they can so they remain in the family.
Then WWII breaks out and to make ends meet, Martha finds employment in a munition factory leaving her children home with her mother in London. But disaster hits and Martha's mother dies when a bomb hits their street. With no other solution, Martha decides to evacuate the twins to the countryside where they will be safe from the unrelenting bombing. When Jacob and Molly are on the train station platform, she gives Jacob an envelope with instructions he open it only if they are desperate. Jacob is confused but promises.
At first Jacob and Molly are happy living in the countryside but then problems appear. Will they be able to stay living in the countryside or will they end up in an orphanage?
I enjoyed this book. It includes information on how dangerous it was for those women working in the munitions factories. Two women we met in her previous book, Sarah and Freida are characters in this book as well.
Then WWII breaks out and to make ends meet, Martha finds employment in a munition factory leaving her children home with her mother in London. But disaster hits and Martha's mother dies when a bomb hits their street. With no other solution, Martha decides to evacuate the twins to the countryside where they will be safe from the unrelenting bombing. When Jacob and Molly are on the train station platform, she gives Jacob an envelope with instructions he open it only if they are desperate. Jacob is confused but promises.
At first Jacob and Molly are happy living in the countryside but then problems appear. Will they be able to stay living in the countryside or will they end up in an orphanage?
I enjoyed this book. It includes information on how dangerous it was for those women working in the munitions factories. Two women we met in her previous book, Sarah and Freida are characters in this book as well.
June 17, 2022
We know that war and peace are both incompatible notions. However, author Shirley Dickson shows us that war and compassion are definitely compatible. She examines how war often calls for human compassion to help one another to ensure survival.
This book focuses on twins Molly and Jacob who are evacuated during WW2 and sent to complete strangers far away in the countryside. Dickson captures both the bewilderment of the children and the fear and lack of control a mother would feel at sending loved ones away, not knowing if she’ll ever see them again. It’s a tender account of how a boy cares for his differently-abled sister during wartime and learns to rely on strangers to survive. I appreciated that Dickson took a different approach to child evacuation stories; she tells of a positive ‘home children’ experience. I was caught up in homefront life in Northumberland during the war and although I was able to set the book down, I slipped back into the setting and story easily.
Yes, it’s predictable and yes, it’s sad, but hidden in the often meandering and verbose prose is a blaring message for us when we find ourselves in the midst of senseless calamity. I think Mr. Rogers said it best, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” My takeaway is that together we can survive anything.
I was gifted this advance copy by Shirley Dickson, Forever Publishing, Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This book focuses on twins Molly and Jacob who are evacuated during WW2 and sent to complete strangers far away in the countryside. Dickson captures both the bewilderment of the children and the fear and lack of control a mother would feel at sending loved ones away, not knowing if she’ll ever see them again. It’s a tender account of how a boy cares for his differently-abled sister during wartime and learns to rely on strangers to survive. I appreciated that Dickson took a different approach to child evacuation stories; she tells of a positive ‘home children’ experience. I was caught up in homefront life in Northumberland during the war and although I was able to set the book down, I slipped back into the setting and story easily.
Yes, it’s predictable and yes, it’s sad, but hidden in the often meandering and verbose prose is a blaring message for us when we find ourselves in the midst of senseless calamity. I think Mr. Rogers said it best, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” My takeaway is that together we can survive anything.
I was gifted this advance copy by Shirley Dickson, Forever Publishing, Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
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