Uncover the inspiring true story of a young woman’s bravery during World War II

Her extraordinary journey, documented in notebooks found after her passing, is now beautifully shared in a book authored by her daughter, Susan.

When I discovered the notebooks, I could almost hear her voice, a voice filled with love, strength, and humour. Her words painted a vivid picture of a world shaped by hardship yet illuminated by resilience and the enduring bonds of family. I realised then that her story deserved to be shared—not only for its historical significance but as a tribute to all who endured those times.

A Childhood Marked by Hardship
Born in 1926 during the Great Depression, my mother was 13 when World War II began. At 14, her family was evacuated from London to Leicester. During their time there, her mother fell seriously ill and was hospitalised, and my mother took on the responsibility of caring for her three younger brothers. Through her writing, she reveals her determination to hold the family together as her mother wished and the courage it took to do so.

Family Heritage and Resilient Women
Her heritage tells a remarkable story. Her mother was the eldest of 17 children. Her father’s background remains a mystery. On her maternal side, she descended from steadfast Londoners; her grandfather was a costermonger and the Pearly King of St Pancras. On her paternal side, her grandmother was a dedicated suffragette. From these roots, she inherited both pride and a strong sense of purpose.

A Vanished London
Her memories offer a glimpse into a London that no longer exists—a city alive with markets, coal yards, local shops, and unforgettable neighbourhood characters. Her words do more than preserve history; they bring it vividly to life.

A Young Woman’s Perspective on Social History
What makes her story truly unique is that it is told from the perspective of a young woman growing up amid war and loss, hope and new beginnings. Her narrative reveals what it was like to come of age during such turbulent times, giving voice to countless others whose stories remain untold.

Preserving Her Voice for Future Generations
My deepest hope in sharing this book is to honour her voice and keep her memories alive. Her notebooks will remain a lasting legacy—not just for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren but for generations to come, offering a glimpse into life during those remarkable times.