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Until The Road Ends
Until the Road Ends is the eagerly awaited new novel from the bestselling author of When the Sky The Times Children's Book of the Year, winner of a Books Are My Bag Readers Award, the British Book Award for Children’s Fiction and shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal.
When Peggy saves a stray dog from near-death, a beautiful friendship begins. Peggy and Beau are the only thing that can ever come between them is war. Peggy is evacuated to the safety of the coast, but Beau is left behind in the city, where he becomes the most extraordinary and unlikely of war heroes.
Night after night, as bombs rain down and communities are destroyed, Beau searches the streets, saving countless families. But then disaster strikes, changing Peggy’s life forever. With her parents killed, both she and Beau are left alone, hundreds of miles apart. But Beau has a plan to reunite them at long last . . .
When Peggy saves a stray dog from near-death, a beautiful friendship begins. Peggy and Beau are the only thing that can ever come between them is war. Peggy is evacuated to the safety of the coast, but Beau is left behind in the city, where he becomes the most extraordinary and unlikely of war heroes.
Night after night, as bombs rain down and communities are destroyed, Beau searches the streets, saving countless families. But then disaster strikes, changing Peggy’s life forever. With her parents killed, both she and Beau are left alone, hundreds of miles apart. But Beau has a plan to reunite them at long last . . .
Paperback
First published June 1, 2023
24 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
About the author
Phil Earle
48 books105 followersPhil was born in Hull in 1974, and he studied English and Drama at Hull University. He worked for a year as a carer in a children’s home, then after training as a drama therapist, he worked in a therapeutic community in London, which cared for multiply abused adolescents. Then, changing tack completely, he chose a marginally more sedate life as a children’s bookseller. It was here that he developed an obsession for kid’s literature, in particular, young adult fiction.
After three years at Ottakar’s, he became a sales rep, and then a key account manager for Transworld/Random House, and is now sales director at Simon and Schuster Children’s Books.
Phil lives in South East London with his wife and three young children.
After three years at Ottakar’s, he became a sales rep, and then a key account manager for Transworld/Random House, and is now sales director at Simon and Schuster Children’s Books.
Phil lives in South East London with his wife and three young children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
September 26, 2023
Until the Road Ends is a powerful, heartfelt book about a young girl, her dog Beau, and the devastation that war brings.
After young Peggy saves a stray dog from being run over by a truck she takes him home and is allowed to keep him, calling him Beau, short for beautiful. The two build a loving friendship and Beau will do anything for his new owner who he loves immensely. Unfortunately, the Second World War is looming and Peggy and her brother Wilf are sent to the coast to live with their aunt, their pets, Beau and Wilf’s cat Mabel are left behind with their parents.
Beau becomes very useful in the search for people trapped under rubble and he helps Peggy’s father who is an air raid warden find survivors, but it isn’t long before tragedy strikes, and the two best friends need each other more than ever before but they are miles apart.
Until the Road Ends is a book that will have you laughing and crying. It is touching and heart-warming, as well as heart-breaking too. It shows the real horrors and the effects on the people that World War Two had and will give children an understanding of how people lived during those times.
The book is written in the third person so you not only get inside Peggy’s head you also get to read about Beau and a few other animals’ thoughts and feelings too. I love Beau, he is a spectacular character and I love how well author Phil Earle has written his doggish thoughts, I just wanted to give him a big cuddle. I also love the humour that came from Mabel the cat and Bomber the pigeon.
Overall, this is a spectacular book that had me gripped the whole way through. It is one of those books that you want to rush through and savour at the same time. A truly amazing and glorious read.
After young Peggy saves a stray dog from being run over by a truck she takes him home and is allowed to keep him, calling him Beau, short for beautiful. The two build a loving friendship and Beau will do anything for his new owner who he loves immensely. Unfortunately, the Second World War is looming and Peggy and her brother Wilf are sent to the coast to live with their aunt, their pets, Beau and Wilf’s cat Mabel are left behind with their parents.
Beau becomes very useful in the search for people trapped under rubble and he helps Peggy’s father who is an air raid warden find survivors, but it isn’t long before tragedy strikes, and the two best friends need each other more than ever before but they are miles apart.
Until the Road Ends is a book that will have you laughing and crying. It is touching and heart-warming, as well as heart-breaking too. It shows the real horrors and the effects on the people that World War Two had and will give children an understanding of how people lived during those times.
The book is written in the third person so you not only get inside Peggy’s head you also get to read about Beau and a few other animals’ thoughts and feelings too. I love Beau, he is a spectacular character and I love how well author Phil Earle has written his doggish thoughts, I just wanted to give him a big cuddle. I also love the humour that came from Mabel the cat and Bomber the pigeon.
Overall, this is a spectacular book that had me gripped the whole way through. It is one of those books that you want to rush through and savour at the same time. A truly amazing and glorious read.
September 20, 2023
WAY below my reading level, forced 2 read 4 skl/readers cup… boring and repetitive icl
August 13, 2025
I was a lovely read, just a bit “too easy”
It was a cute sorry about the love between animals and there owners, and it really showed how smart they truly are and how much much we appreciate and depend on them
Just wish it had more to it
Very nice read overall
It was a cute sorry about the love between animals and there owners, and it really showed how smart they truly are and how much much we appreciate and depend on them
Just wish it had more to it
Very nice read overall
May 28, 2023
This is essentially WWII Homeward Bound, and it was beautiful! I knew I’d cry going into it - heck I cried 50 pages in, but Phil Earle does know how to pull on animal-lovers heart strings. I especially loved that he made us care so much about a homing pigeon who’s ready to fight the good fight for the war effort. But Beau and Mabel and their incredible adventure across England to make it to their human kids is just wonderful!
January 19, 2024
It is a tale about a faithful dog and her mistress. This was one of the books I purchased from the famous Sharjah International Book Fair and I read the book in India and believe me it made me continue reading it way past my bedtime. I really enjoyed this book and I hope you do too.
Until the road ends is a heartwarming read that just captivates your soul in this marvellous journey across England. The story first starts with Peggy a young girl who saves a stray dog from being almost killed in an accident. The injured stray dog later named as Beau finds a special place in Peggy’s and her parents’ heart, but it might not be the same with the other members of the family. Spoiler alert- A cat is involved!
This is a good read with a very meaningful theme which is set in the early onset World War II. Phil Earle has done a fantastic job to make the character feel alive and real. However, more inclusion of facts about WWII could have made the book better than what it already is. All in all, I would rate this book a 4.5/5.
Until the road ends is a heartwarming read that just captivates your soul in this marvellous journey across England. The story first starts with Peggy a young girl who saves a stray dog from being almost killed in an accident. The injured stray dog later named as Beau finds a special place in Peggy’s and her parents’ heart, but it might not be the same with the other members of the family. Spoiler alert- A cat is involved!
This is a good read with a very meaningful theme which is set in the early onset World War II. Phil Earle has done a fantastic job to make the character feel alive and real. However, more inclusion of facts about WWII could have made the book better than what it already is. All in all, I would rate this book a 4.5/5.
November 13, 2023
The third book in Phil Earles accidental series of books set around the Blitz didn't disappoint.
We follow Beau, a dog who was rescued by a little girl and taken in as one of the family on the brink of war. When 'his girl' and her little brother were evacuated out of London and the government suggest all pets are put down, Beaus family refuse to put down Beau and Mabel, the family's cat.
When disaster strikes, Beau embarks on a journey across the country to find his girl. He is joined Bomber - a homing pigeon - and (reluctantly) Mabel the cat.
They encounter more adventures than they bargained for, will they ever make it to their owners?
We follow Beau, a dog who was rescued by a little girl and taken in as one of the family on the brink of war. When 'his girl' and her little brother were evacuated out of London and the government suggest all pets are put down, Beaus family refuse to put down Beau and Mabel, the family's cat.
When disaster strikes, Beau embarks on a journey across the country to find his girl. He is joined Bomber - a homing pigeon - and (reluctantly) Mabel the cat.
They encounter more adventures than they bargained for, will they ever make it to their owners?
November 22, 2023
4.5/5 Stars
March 13, 2024
Very good book- enjoyed listening to the brave adventures of these three characters- kept me entertained when I was ill.
October 3, 2023
Beau can't believe his luck. One minute he's living on the streets, raiding rubbish bins in alleys for dinner, and the next he's accepted into a loving human family. A girl named Penny had made this happen, heaping love and affection on Beau after she found and named him.
Other members of this family called Alford are Penny's loving kind parents, her little brother Wilf and his cat Mabel. Only Mabel is not happy to share her home with Beau, making it perfectly clear whenever in the same room. Besides this clash between dog and cat, all is well in the Alford home.
But the wireless warns of war, children are soon to be evacuated fom London and pets are to be put down. Penny and Wilf hate to be separated from their pets and plead to their parents to look after them while they're at an aunt's far from London.
Beau becomes Mr Alford's eyes and ears as London begins to be bombed by German forces. Together they save hundreds of lives but keeping Penny's parents safe from the Blitz is much more difficult.
Soon Beau and his pigeon friend Bomber and a very reluctant Mabel, set off to find Penny and Wilf on the coast. They encounter rats, bombs, kindness and crocodiles. They meet fleeing foxes, take train and ferry rides and walk their footpads raw. Ever closer every day, Beau wonders if Penny will be okay, as Mabel has an even bigger worry.
The cover of Until The Road Ends instantly made me think of the wonderful classic The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford. I instantly snapped this title from the shelf.
Combine animals, humour, action, WWII's Blitz and a gallant quest, and you have all the ingredients of a another wonderful read by Phil Earle.
It's by no means an easy journey and the clash between kind-hearted and forgiving dog, Beau and sassy, selfish, arrogant cat, Mabel brings tension throughout. Discovering why Mabel is so awful is a sobering thought.
I loved pigeon character Bomber with his courage, humour and determination to achieve his 'mission' - one of my favourite animal characters ever.
This is a book for animal lovers and anyone interested in war stories. Character Beau was based on a real stray dog named Rip who saved hundreds of lives and there are many other components of the story based on fact.
Absolutely loved it!
Age - 9+
Other members of this family called Alford are Penny's loving kind parents, her little brother Wilf and his cat Mabel. Only Mabel is not happy to share her home with Beau, making it perfectly clear whenever in the same room. Besides this clash between dog and cat, all is well in the Alford home.
But the wireless warns of war, children are soon to be evacuated fom London and pets are to be put down. Penny and Wilf hate to be separated from their pets and plead to their parents to look after them while they're at an aunt's far from London.
Beau becomes Mr Alford's eyes and ears as London begins to be bombed by German forces. Together they save hundreds of lives but keeping Penny's parents safe from the Blitz is much more difficult.
Soon Beau and his pigeon friend Bomber and a very reluctant Mabel, set off to find Penny and Wilf on the coast. They encounter rats, bombs, kindness and crocodiles. They meet fleeing foxes, take train and ferry rides and walk their footpads raw. Ever closer every day, Beau wonders if Penny will be okay, as Mabel has an even bigger worry.
The cover of Until The Road Ends instantly made me think of the wonderful classic The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford. I instantly snapped this title from the shelf.
Combine animals, humour, action, WWII's Blitz and a gallant quest, and you have all the ingredients of a another wonderful read by Phil Earle.
It's by no means an easy journey and the clash between kind-hearted and forgiving dog, Beau and sassy, selfish, arrogant cat, Mabel brings tension throughout. Discovering why Mabel is so awful is a sobering thought.
I loved pigeon character Bomber with his courage, humour and determination to achieve his 'mission' - one of my favourite animal characters ever.
This is a book for animal lovers and anyone interested in war stories. Character Beau was based on a real stray dog named Rip who saved hundreds of lives and there are many other components of the story based on fact.
Absolutely loved it!
Age - 9+
April 5, 2023
Firstly, I haven't read any Phil Earle books, I certainly will be now. I know my lovely local indie lady at Ottie & the Bea thinks he is great.
This book made me cry and I don't mean brought a tear to my eye (which really isn't hard) but full on crying.
I was a bit put off by the idea that there were 54 chapters! But don't be they are really short (is this normal for Phil's books? I know he also writes for Barrington Stoke who are great for short chapters) which is excellent for bedtime reading.
We first meet Beau a street dog, when entranced by the truck coming towards him he lies in the road awaiting his fate....until two hands drag him away. Those hands take him home. They belong to Peggy, a young girl who lives with her parents, Mr & Mrs Alford, and brother Wilf and Mabel his pet cat. For the first time ever Beau finds humans that are kind. They laugh a lot, they love each other and share everything they have.
But WW2 is coming. The Alfords receive a letter stating pets should be put down. Peggy is distraught, her father eventually concedes that Beau and Mabel are part of the family and he will do his best to look after them. Then, like most children in London, Peggy and Wilf are evacuated to Anvil Point, Aunt Sylvie's home on the south coast. but she can't take the animals.
Peggy sends regular letters which the Alford's read out to Beau. Beau chats about the war with the homing pigeon, Bomber, who lives next door to the Alford's. Bomber is waiting to be a soldier just like the pigeons in WW1. In the meantime Beau has become Mr Alford's shadow on his nightly work as a warden. Beau's nose proves useful in finding people in the rubble.
But one night a massive bomb lands in Balham High Street....
Beau decides then that he must go to Peggy, and with Bomber's help begins a long journey, that Mabel refuses to join him on....
This book is just beautiful. Beau's love for Peggy and her family transcends the danger of an unknown journey during wartime.
I will be buying a copy of this book for myself! And for school.
This book made me cry and I don't mean brought a tear to my eye (which really isn't hard) but full on crying.
I was a bit put off by the idea that there were 54 chapters! But don't be they are really short (is this normal for Phil's books? I know he also writes for Barrington Stoke who are great for short chapters) which is excellent for bedtime reading.
We first meet Beau a street dog, when entranced by the truck coming towards him he lies in the road awaiting his fate....until two hands drag him away. Those hands take him home. They belong to Peggy, a young girl who lives with her parents, Mr & Mrs Alford, and brother Wilf and Mabel his pet cat. For the first time ever Beau finds humans that are kind. They laugh a lot, they love each other and share everything they have.
But WW2 is coming. The Alfords receive a letter stating pets should be put down. Peggy is distraught, her father eventually concedes that Beau and Mabel are part of the family and he will do his best to look after them. Then, like most children in London, Peggy and Wilf are evacuated to Anvil Point, Aunt Sylvie's home on the south coast. but she can't take the animals.
Peggy sends regular letters which the Alford's read out to Beau. Beau chats about the war with the homing pigeon, Bomber, who lives next door to the Alford's. Bomber is waiting to be a soldier just like the pigeons in WW1. In the meantime Beau has become Mr Alford's shadow on his nightly work as a warden. Beau's nose proves useful in finding people in the rubble.
But one night a massive bomb lands in Balham High Street....
Beau decides then that he must go to Peggy, and with Bomber's help begins a long journey, that Mabel refuses to join him on....
This book is just beautiful. Beau's love for Peggy and her family transcends the danger of an unknown journey during wartime.
I will be buying a copy of this book for myself! And for school.
March 1, 2024
Longlisted for the Yoto Carnegie Medal. This is not the first Phil Earle book that I have read, I read When the Sky Falls in 2022 when it was also listed for the Yoto Carnegies. This one made me immediately think of the film Homeward Bound that I remember watching as a child - and crying over. Beau is rescued from almost being flatttened by a truck by Peggy, and he forms a super relationship with her when he is welcomed into the family home. More difficult to win over is Mabel the cat who belongs to Peggy's brother, Wilf. With the advent of war, the children's parents decide to evacuate them from London to live with theit aunt, but she won't take the animals. The government have 'suggested' that with the oncoming conflict it would be best for family pets to be euthanised - a true fact that is sort of glossed over because of the impact to morale. But the Alfords go against advice and the animals stay. Beau finds a role when he accompanies Peggy's father on his warden rounds and his ability to sniff out survivors of bombings earns him praise. Then comes the fateful night when Peggy's parents are killed and Beau makes a decision that he needs to get to his girl to comfort her. Accompanied by Mabel and a plucky pigeon, Bomber, the three animals start their journey. I'm not a great lover of books with talking animals, but in this one, I loved the voices. Mabel is sarcastic and just brilliant while Beau is so full of compassion. As for the pigeon, Bomber, he is the glue that keeps the little group together, motivating, guiding, cajoling. A perfect novel to let youngsters know the horror of the Blitz, the devastation and heartbreak of war and it gives a glimpse of the effect on animals when they are removed from their loving environments. For an adult reader, this has a fantastic storyline full of tension and emotion. I'm not ashamed to say that there were tears.
May 15, 2025
What was it like for animals during the war? How did people have the heart to put them down? Food was scarce and feeding a pet was a “waste” of resources.
Until the Road Ends by Phil Earle is the story of three animals that survive thanks to a combination of bravery and sheer good luck. It’s the story of an unlikely friendship featuring a strange and diverse range of characters, including a supercilious cat, a street-smart dog, an army-mad pigeon … and even a crocodile!
What I loved about Until the Road Ends is the way the characters are drawn. Each one emerges as a distinct, complex personality, fully rounded and completely believable.
A bittersweet story that makes the heart ache, this work of historical fiction brings a unique perspective to a familiar period. With snarky characters similar to Bob from The One and Only Bob and themes that Michael Morpurgo has explored extensively in his stories, I would recommend Until the Road Ends to late middle-grade readers who enjoy either or both!
Until the Road Ends by Phil Earle is the story of three animals that survive thanks to a combination of bravery and sheer good luck. It’s the story of an unlikely friendship featuring a strange and diverse range of characters, including a supercilious cat, a street-smart dog, an army-mad pigeon … and even a crocodile!
What I loved about Until the Road Ends is the way the characters are drawn. Each one emerges as a distinct, complex personality, fully rounded and completely believable.
A bittersweet story that makes the heart ache, this work of historical fiction brings a unique perspective to a familiar period. With snarky characters similar to Bob from The One and Only Bob and themes that Michael Morpurgo has explored extensively in his stories, I would recommend Until the Road Ends to late middle-grade readers who enjoy either or both!
July 19, 2023
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have been meaning to read this authors work for a while now and as someone who enjoys emotional stories set around animals and love to learn as much as I can about our history especially ww2, this was a great pick.
This book is an emotional tale of love and bravery. A story of war, and sacrifice. Told from the point of view of Beau who was found on the streets and adopted by a lovely family and their cat Mabel just before WW2. The story sees the war and the effect of the blitz on these two animals and their neighbouring pigeon, Bomber. When the two children, Wilf and Penny are evacuated to the country, the pets stick around and adapt to life in the blitz… until tragedy strikes and the unlikely trio go on their own epic journey to find their loved ones.
A harrowing and emotional tale that has left me with tears more than once. Beautiful!
I have been meaning to read this authors work for a while now and as someone who enjoys emotional stories set around animals and love to learn as much as I can about our history especially ww2, this was a great pick.
This book is an emotional tale of love and bravery. A story of war, and sacrifice. Told from the point of view of Beau who was found on the streets and adopted by a lovely family and their cat Mabel just before WW2. The story sees the war and the effect of the blitz on these two animals and their neighbouring pigeon, Bomber. When the two children, Wilf and Penny are evacuated to the country, the pets stick around and adapt to life in the blitz… until tragedy strikes and the unlikely trio go on their own epic journey to find their loved ones.
A harrowing and emotional tale that has left me with tears more than once. Beautiful!
May 17, 2025
Another heartwarming read by Phil Earle, these books are so good to read not just the awful reality of war, but the good that still exists within these periods.
Unlike the other books of his i read, this one is mainly told by Beau perspective, who is a dog. After being rescued by Penny from the street, he finally found a family, even though Mabel, the cat, is not happy about it. But war is on the horizon, and the kids are evacuated. Beau misses Penny terribly, but his nose is invaluable to find people under the collapsed buildings after the bombings. When tragedy hits again, he wants to be there for Penny, so he, Mable, and a soldier pigeon travel south to find her; the journey is not easy, and they almost get killed and few times 😢
This was a very cute read, still hard in some places, human nature at its worse..but good examples of what it means to be human as well.
This is the type of book I would like my kids to read (if I had any 🤣)
Unlike the other books of his i read, this one is mainly told by Beau perspective, who is a dog. After being rescued by Penny from the street, he finally found a family, even though Mabel, the cat, is not happy about it. But war is on the horizon, and the kids are evacuated. Beau misses Penny terribly, but his nose is invaluable to find people under the collapsed buildings after the bombings. When tragedy hits again, he wants to be there for Penny, so he, Mable, and a soldier pigeon travel south to find her; the journey is not easy, and they almost get killed and few times 😢
This was a very cute read, still hard in some places, human nature at its worse..but good examples of what it means to be human as well.
This is the type of book I would like my kids to read (if I had any 🤣)
June 19, 2023
‘This is Peggy we’re talking about. And Wilf too. So I’ll keep looking until the road ends.’
Peggy brings home a stray dog which she names Beau. Her brother, Wilf, already has a cat named, Mabel, who isn’t impressed by the new arrival and they co-exist unhappily. Beau adores Peggy and Wilf adores Mabel in the way it is with cats and dogs. A government leaflet arrives relaying concerns about feeding human and animal populations during the war. The leaflet suggests ‘having animals put to sleep.’ When ‘sleep’ is explained to them, the children are horrified, but their father, Mr Alford, promises to do his best to keep the animals alive. Peggy and her brother are evacuated to a lighthouse in Dorset and life changes very rapidly for Beau and Mabel. Mr Alford is an air-raid warden and night after night Beau works alongside him, searching out bodies in the rubble. Mabel meanwhile is dining out on the rat population in London. Beau befriends a pigeon called Bomber who updates them on the war situation and is looking forward to active duty. When disaster strikes the three of them embark on an incredible and dangerous journey.
It will be a pretty impossible task to find middle fiction better than this. The Second World War is always a fascinating topic for middle grade and the author brings a brilliant and original perspective, seeing the war through the eyes of the animals.
‘..there was precious little else, certainly very few aromas of life. How could humans do that to one another?’
Through the eyes of a cat, pigeon and dog the story provides a visual account on every level from the destruction on the ground to Bomber’s aerial eye witness accounts.. The characterisation is superb. Bomber is bombastic, ready for duty; Beau is gutsy, loyal with a capital L, brave and determined; Mabel is a character!!
That cat loves conflict even more than the Nazis. Stand up to her and she’ll make your life a misery. Ignore her and is drives her potty.’
This story is perfectly pitched combining a glorious seam of history with an incredible adventure.. This a story astounding friendship in adversity which keeps you guessing right to the end of the road. I had no idea about the history of animals during the war - this was mind blowing ! There are moments of glorious humour; jaw dropping moments, terrifying moments and some rather tearful moments. Children (and their adults) will absolutely adore reading this . Absolutely blooming wonderful!
With thanks to Netgalley and Andersen Press for my digital copy.
I have gone on to buy my own copy of this amazing book.
Peggy brings home a stray dog which she names Beau. Her brother, Wilf, already has a cat named, Mabel, who isn’t impressed by the new arrival and they co-exist unhappily. Beau adores Peggy and Wilf adores Mabel in the way it is with cats and dogs. A government leaflet arrives relaying concerns about feeding human and animal populations during the war. The leaflet suggests ‘having animals put to sleep.’ When ‘sleep’ is explained to them, the children are horrified, but their father, Mr Alford, promises to do his best to keep the animals alive. Peggy and her brother are evacuated to a lighthouse in Dorset and life changes very rapidly for Beau and Mabel. Mr Alford is an air-raid warden and night after night Beau works alongside him, searching out bodies in the rubble. Mabel meanwhile is dining out on the rat population in London. Beau befriends a pigeon called Bomber who updates them on the war situation and is looking forward to active duty. When disaster strikes the three of them embark on an incredible and dangerous journey.
It will be a pretty impossible task to find middle fiction better than this. The Second World War is always a fascinating topic for middle grade and the author brings a brilliant and original perspective, seeing the war through the eyes of the animals.
‘..there was precious little else, certainly very few aromas of life. How could humans do that to one another?’
Through the eyes of a cat, pigeon and dog the story provides a visual account on every level from the destruction on the ground to Bomber’s aerial eye witness accounts.. The characterisation is superb. Bomber is bombastic, ready for duty; Beau is gutsy, loyal with a capital L, brave and determined; Mabel is a character!!
That cat loves conflict even more than the Nazis. Stand up to her and she’ll make your life a misery. Ignore her and is drives her potty.’
This story is perfectly pitched combining a glorious seam of history with an incredible adventure.. This a story astounding friendship in adversity which keeps you guessing right to the end of the road. I had no idea about the history of animals during the war - this was mind blowing ! There are moments of glorious humour; jaw dropping moments, terrifying moments and some rather tearful moments. Children (and their adults) will absolutely adore reading this . Absolutely blooming wonderful!
With thanks to Netgalley and Andersen Press for my digital copy.
I have gone on to buy my own copy of this amazing book.
September 8, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book to Nell and Judy the dog. It did end quite abruptly though. I feel the guy tried to write a dramatic end to the story, but actually left us with whiplash as two giant moments within the book are covered in about a page and a half. We spent longer on the weird part of the story with the crocodile in it than we did on the actual ending. Pacing issues ++. Also, some editing mistakes which annoyed me. I also kind of feel like the characters didn't have much if any growth at all. Actually the more I think about it the more things annoyed me about it, however I do love reading to the baby so I ploughed on for her sake.
However. I did feel that the first half of the book was much more enjoyable than the second. The day to day impact of the blitz is well described, and he did well to capture the emotions of evacuation and loss of wartime.
However. I did feel that the first half of the book was much more enjoyable than the second. The day to day impact of the blitz is well described, and he did well to capture the emotions of evacuation and loss of wartime.
April 29, 2023
This is a fantastic story of adventure and bravery, whilst also educating youngsters on a period of history which is so important to keep alive. The characters of Beau, Mabel and Bomber are the perfect companions and pull you in to keep you rooting for them to the very end.
The story is beautifully written and I often found myself punching the sky with some of the language used (I think ‘incongruous’ was my biggest highlight!).
So many elements of the story, including the character of Beau, are based on true events which made the story feel so much more alive. It has left me wanting to find out more and I’m sure like many others, it will send me down a Google rabbit hole. This is an unforgettable story that I will be talking about and retelling to many.
The story is beautifully written and I often found myself punching the sky with some of the language used (I think ‘incongruous’ was my biggest highlight!).
So many elements of the story, including the character of Beau, are based on true events which made the story feel so much more alive. It has left me wanting to find out more and I’m sure like many others, it will send me down a Google rabbit hole. This is an unforgettable story that I will be talking about and retelling to many.
March 19, 2024
🎧4.5⭐️
I had the audiobook brilliantly read by the author.
A children’s beautiful heartwarming and equally moving wartime story. Told from the animals perspective. Beau the street dog saved by Peggy, Mabel is Wilf’s beloved cat and Bomber the homing pigeon.
Peggy and Wilf are separated from their beloved pets when they are evacuated to the country to keep them safe.
It covers some of the impact of war, the struggle, loss, separation and difficult decisions.
It’s a beautiful story, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It shows the power of love to help overcome adversity. I was rooting for Beau and Mabel. I just loved Beau what a star! Mabel adds some pithy superior cat humour. As much as the target audience is children, it has something to offer everyone. It had me in tears
I had the audiobook brilliantly read by the author.
A children’s beautiful heartwarming and equally moving wartime story. Told from the animals perspective. Beau the street dog saved by Peggy, Mabel is Wilf’s beloved cat and Bomber the homing pigeon.
Peggy and Wilf are separated from their beloved pets when they are evacuated to the country to keep them safe.
It covers some of the impact of war, the struggle, loss, separation and difficult decisions.
It’s a beautiful story, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It shows the power of love to help overcome adversity. I was rooting for Beau and Mabel. I just loved Beau what a star! Mabel adds some pithy superior cat humour. As much as the target audience is children, it has something to offer everyone. It had me in tears
April 23, 2023
Beau, Mabel and Bomber.
This story, set in World War II is set around the voices of these three animals and their owners.
(I'll do my best to give no spoilers)
This family are faced with the same struggle that many other families had to face during the war. Evacuation and what to do with their pets.
Beau tells the story of the choices his family make and how they manage the war. With bombs, shelters and loss this book manages unexpected loss and also loyalty.
What do these animals do when faced with loss and war ... Beautifully written and an interesting view point too. Thanks to netgalley for an eCopy to read before it was published
This story, set in World War II is set around the voices of these three animals and their owners.
(I'll do my best to give no spoilers)
This family are faced with the same struggle that many other families had to face during the war. Evacuation and what to do with their pets.
Beau tells the story of the choices his family make and how they manage the war. With bombs, shelters and loss this book manages unexpected loss and also loyalty.
What do these animals do when faced with loss and war ... Beautifully written and an interesting view point too. Thanks to netgalley for an eCopy to read before it was published
June 10, 2023
All the stars for the wonderful Phil Earle. He never falls to capture the compassion and adoration humans and animals feel for each other; I adore his work and have never been disappointed.
It's WWII and Beau, a wandering stray dog, is rescued from the streets. The family, especially Peggy, adore Beau but when they become separated Beau, Mabel the cat and Bomber the carrier pigeon work together to survive the damage and reunite their human families.
If you love animals, or you've enjoyed any of Phil Earle's books, you need this one in your life.
ARC provided from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
It's WWII and Beau, a wandering stray dog, is rescued from the streets. The family, especially Peggy, adore Beau but when they become separated Beau, Mabel the cat and Bomber the carrier pigeon work together to survive the damage and reunite their human families.
If you love animals, or you've enjoyed any of Phil Earle's books, you need this one in your life.
ARC provided from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2023
A sweet story, set in WW2, starting in London during the Blitz.
Beau (the narrator) is a stray, adopted by young Peggy, much to the dislike of Mabel the family cat.
The children are evacuated and Beau joins the father helping rescue people buried in the bombings.
When Peggy’s parents are killed, Beau and Mabel, guided by Bomber the pigeon, set off to find Peggy and Wilf… with various adventures along the way.
Lots of factual detail eg bombing on Balham High Road where a bus fell into the crater and ppl sheltering in Balham tube were killed and the use of pigeons in the war.
Deals with bullying, loss, hunting, war, separation, loyalty, bravery, love.
Good for Y7/8.
Beau (the narrator) is a stray, adopted by young Peggy, much to the dislike of Mabel the family cat.
The children are evacuated and Beau joins the father helping rescue people buried in the bombings.
When Peggy’s parents are killed, Beau and Mabel, guided by Bomber the pigeon, set off to find Peggy and Wilf… with various adventures along the way.
Lots of factual detail eg bombing on Balham High Road where a bus fell into the crater and ppl sheltering in Balham tube were killed and the use of pigeons in the war.
Deals with bullying, loss, hunting, war, separation, loyalty, bravery, love.
Good for Y7/8.
June 8, 2023
3 stars for me, but giving 4 stars for the target age group.
I did not enjoy this story as much as Earle's other works (I think When the sky falls is still the best) but I can see that children who like animals and historical adventure will like this more than I did. This one is a little different than his others, as it is told through the animals' voices.
What I really appreciate is how Earle includes a note about what parts of his story are based in fact. Although I think this story got a bit bogged down in the circus part, I appreciate the explanation of the historical context.
I did not enjoy this story as much as Earle's other works (I think When the sky falls is still the best) but I can see that children who like animals and historical adventure will like this more than I did. This one is a little different than his others, as it is told through the animals' voices.
What I really appreciate is how Earle includes a note about what parts of his story are based in fact. Although I think this story got a bit bogged down in the circus part, I appreciate the explanation of the historical context.
February 28, 2024
Until the Road Ends, by Phil Earle.
This is the third paperback book that I have read by author Phil Earle: and what a lovely end to his World War II series.
A heartfelt, beautiful story of adventure, friendships and the need to be loved and feel safe. Home is certainly where the heart is.
Proving animals are brave and courageous too.
Beautifully written as always. A real pleasure to read. The book will sit proudly on my bookshelves at home, ready for me or my granddaughter to read again.
A book suitable for all ages.
Highly recommended.
This is the third paperback book that I have read by author Phil Earle: and what a lovely end to his World War II series.
A heartfelt, beautiful story of adventure, friendships and the need to be loved and feel safe. Home is certainly where the heart is.
Proving animals are brave and courageous too.
Beautifully written as always. A real pleasure to read. The book will sit proudly on my bookshelves at home, ready for me or my granddaughter to read again.
A book suitable for all ages.
Highly recommended.
May 27, 2023
This is an “animal separated from owner sets out on a quest to find them” story. The only difference with this one is it is based on facts. The acknowledgements reveal that many aspects of the story did actually occur during WWII.
I’m not a great fan of animal stories so I’m definitely not the target audience but I found it quite readable.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not a great fan of animal stories so I’m definitely not the target audience but I found it quite readable.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2023
This author seems to keep getting better and better. I loved this book with the unique viewpoint of a dog and his pals during the WW2 evacuations and Blitz. Earle doesn't shy away from upsetting subjects and he includes loads of historical details to expand knowledgeof the era. This book would be a great class novel for our Year 4s or to be read independently from Y5 upwards. I listened to the audio book which was great because it was read by the author in his lovely northern accent.
August 17, 2023
I don't normally gravitate towards books set in Britain during either world war, but Until the Road Ends ticks all my boxes. It's a heart warming story of two pets (and a pidgeon) journeying to their children, who've been evacuated from London.
It reminds me of Homeward Bound but with a pidgeon instead of a second dog.
It reminds me of Homeward Bound but with a pidgeon instead of a second dog.
August 20, 2023
A heart warming tale set during the Blitz, telling the story of a dog, cat and pigeon making the journey from London to Swanage to be with their owners who have been evacuated. Loved hearing the story from the animals’ perspective and hearing their adventures at local places - Winchester, Bournemouth, Studland and Swanage!
October 24, 2023
I’ve had one on the shelf for a while, unsure of how it would be. I’m so happy to say, from the moment I read the first line, I just felt back in that warm embrace only special authors can give. This book was everything and more. The love, the journey, the perseverance, the heartbreak and just the bonds formed were perfect.
February 14, 2024
Not just a children's book a great listen and wonderfully narrated by the author, I was into it from start to finish, I just love a good story with a dog in it. A bit of history reflection with a lot of detail by the author to portray his story of Beau, Maple and Bomber on their journey to find their people.
Well worth a listen.
Well worth a listen.
February 14, 2024
In the backdrop of World War II, the story is set. A stray dog is rescued by Peggy and named as Beau. When the war breaks down Peggy is moved to the coastal area. When the parents of Peggy are killed in the bomb raids, Beau with friends a journey to meet Peggy, what happens in the end is one should read and enjoy. A well-written story about a human and pet relationship.
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