Author(s): Lesley Parr

Middle Fiction

September 1939. When Jimmy is evacuated to a small village in Wales, it couldn't be more different from London. Green, quiet and full of strangers, he instantly feels out of place. But then he finds a skull hidden in a tree, and suddenly the valley is more frightening than the war. Who can Jimmy trust? His brother is too little; his best friend has changed.

Finding an ally in someone he never expects, they set out together to uncover the secrets that lie with the skull. What they discover will change Jimmy and the village forever. A mesmerising mystery about bravery and brotherhood from an outstanding new voice.

Beck's Review:

It’s September 1939 and Jimmy and his brother are evacuated from London to a Welsh mining village where they receive a mixed welcome from the locals. When Jimmy discovers a skull in the hollow of an old tree, he is determined to uncover its secrets, with help from the unstoppable and loyal Florence.

This delightful and empowering tale of cruelty defeated, the forming of bonds, and mysteries solved is a feel-good story with a truly satisfying conclusion. With echoes of Goodnight Mister Tom, it’s a classic in the making and perfect for ages 8 to 12 years and fans of Michael Morpurgo.