Just Henry by Michelle Magorian

I was lucky enough to go to the launch of this book - in a delightful small cinema in Rupert Street. A totally appropriate setting to hear Michelle read from her new book. Henry is a child growing up in post war Britain, and learning to live with his new step father (his father appears to have died a hero in the war). He has to learn to find his way in a world full of prejudices, and to escape from facing up to his world he attends the cinema as often as he can. The cinema history portrayed is authentic, and the feel of the times totally believable. Henry gradually begins to think for himself, and to deal with the world he lives in. This is a truly delightful story of friendship and growing up. Read it - if you liked Goodnight Mr Tom you'll love this.