Book Review: Goodnight Mister Tom, Michelle Magorian

Title: Goodnight Mister Tom
Author: Michelle Magorian
Published: 01/08/1996, Penguin Books
Pages: 386
Source: No idea... it just appeared when I was little... possibly from my granny's house
Format: Paperback
Rating: 3.5/5
Young Willie Beech is evacuated to the country as Britain stand on the brink of WW2. A sad, deprived child, she slowly begins to flourish under the care of old Tom Oakley - but his new-found happiness is shattered by a summons from his mother back in London.

I'm so glad I finally reread Goodnight Mister Tom! This was definitely one of my favourites when I was a child and I still love watching the movie whenever it's on TV.

Whilst rereading, though. I couldn't help but notice how big this book is! I must have been about 8 the first time I read Goodnight Mister Tom and its nearly 400 pages! I think that's massive for a children's book. It is a very fun read, but at the same time, it's heartbreaking. I think it's the perfect book to gradually introduce children to both World War II, as well as abuse. In my opinion, it's actually quite a hard-hitting story.

I absolutely adore Mister Tom. I love how his hardened heart just melts with the introduction of Will into his life. It's like this little boy gives him a reason to live again. He's such a grumpy old man, but you really can't help but love him. He's just a real softie at heart.

I absolutely love the transformation of Will throughout the story. He starts off as quite a meek, sad boy and, gradually, turns into a happy, playful and confident boy. It's actually quite astounding what Mister Tom's care does to him. He's just a completely different boy by the end.

I honestly love all the characters so much. The only one that annoys me is Zach. He's just a bit too self-obsessed and "in-your-face" for my liking. Though he is great for Will.

Goodnight Mister Tom's plot is quite gradual in speed. It sort of reflects the quite country life that Will is introduced to. And it was never too slow. The story covers a year-long period at just the right pace. There are also plenty of little plot twists to keep the story interesting, especially for a child.

I think Goodnight Mister Tom is just an all-around lovely book that definitely stands the test of time. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone, and even the movie (it's just perfect). I'm just so glad I finally reread it!

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