Quotes I Love by William Nicholson

"We read to know that we are not alone." -William Nicholson

Quotes I Love by Amanda Hodgkinson

“Memories shrink. Like a soap bar used over and over, they become deformed, weaker scented, too slight and slippery to hold.” -Amanda Hodgkinson from 22 Britannia Road

22 Britannia Road by Amanda Hodgkinson

This is a heart wrenching story about a Polish family, Silvana and Janusz and their son Aurek. Not long after Silvana gives birth to Aurek the Russians and the Germans invaded Poland and the couple is forced to separated. Janusz joins the military and Silvana and baby Aurek flee to the forests of Poland.

The story begins with Silvana and Janusz reuniting after their six year long separation however both have experienced so much during their time apart that it’s a struggle to put the pieces back together. Husband and wife struggle to connect as secrets from the past six years isolate them while Aurek struggles to adapt after being raised in the wild. The effects of war are portrayed tragically beautifully through these characters. At times its heartbreaking to read but in the end the story comes full circle and leaves you satisfied. Overall a good read. Goodreads (additional reviews)