Ruby in the Ruins
No. of pages 32
Published: 2019
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This book has been graded for interest at 5-7 years.
There are 32 pages in this book.
This is a picture book. A picture book uses pictures and text to tell the story. The number of words varies from zero ('wordless') to around 1k over 32 pages. Picture books are typically aimed at young readers (age 3-6) but can also be aimed at older children (7+).
This book was published in 2019 by Walker Books Ltd .
Shirley Hughes has illustrated more than 200 children's books. Her many awards include the Kate Greenaway Medal and the prestigious Eleanor Farjeon Award for her services to children's literature.
Military And War in literature
Mental Illness in literature
Depression in literature
Friendship in literature
Adventures in literature
"Set in the aftermath of the London Blitz and VE Day, Hughes takes an evocative look at the ruins of post-war London and the conflicts impact on family life. The relationship between Ruby and her father, newly returned from war, is particularly poignant and well-drawn." * The Bookseller *
"The observation and draughtsmanship are Hughes in her prime, with scenes of street parties and bustling stations and perfectly rendered period costume. Faces express uncertainty or affection, and the physicality of children is accurately captured as they climb, balance or reach for an embrace. Especially remarkable are the lovely, scumbled views of ruined houses, with their piles of bricks and staircases leading nowhere." -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *
"Hughes's familiar drawing brilliantly capture the gaiety of VE day street parties against the eerie aftermath of the Blitz. At ninety, Hughes is the grande dame of the British picture book - and this touching story showers her formula working at its best." * Oldie *
"Ruby in the Ruins is so rose-tinted you can smell the floral perfume: death is avoided, Dad shows no sign of trauma, Mum has not been radicalised in his absence. Yet it's as comforting as a tea cosy and an ideal introduction to the war for delicate tinies." - Alex O'Connell * The Times (Saturday Review) *
"The book paints a wonderful picture of a child's life in post-war London, and celebrates the love of a family." * Parents In Touch *
