Book cover for Coming to England

Coming to England

Ages 4 to 6

Synopsis

Details

30 September 2021
9 minutes
Floella Benjamin
9781529049282
Imprint: Macmillan Children's Books

Reviews

Baroness Benjamin charts her own journey to England as part of the Windrush generation in this gorgeously illustrated book about how courage and determination can triumph over adversity
The book is a mix of colourful illustrations and a deeply personal account of a 10-year-old Floella adjusting to her new home in a not-so-friendly Britain. It’s a charming book that deftly moves through a myriad of emotions, tackling important topics but crafted so even the youngest readers can understand and enjoy the tale.
Coming to England leaps off the page full of hope and personality, much like Benjamin herself. The scenes of home life are particularly moving and capture the atmosphere of family warmth, connection and just a little bit of chaos.
Vibrant illustrations evoke the landscape and semi tropical climate of Trinidad beginning with the wonderful end papers and they add warmth and colour throughout the book. This picture book provides an insight into the experience of the Windrush generation showing the ups and downs of immigration and trying to forge a new life… there is a message of hope and optimism as Floella gradually makes friends, her family fits in and through her achievements she eventually realises her early ambition to meet the Queen.