On the Run

Ben spends his summer in London with his father and future stepmother, where he discovers Thomas - a boy from the distant nation of Tiga who lives in a mysterious garden. Upon learning of a kidnapping plot against Thomas, Ben joins forces with Thomas and their friend Lil to escape to safety. The story moves between the urban landscape of London and the coastal setting of Herne Bay in Kent, following the three children as they navigate danger and uncertainty. Their journey tests their resourcefulness and bonds of friendship as they attempt to stay ahead of those pursuing them. Set in 1960s Britain, the novel explores themes of independence, trust, and the complex relationship between children and the adult world. At its core, it's a story about young people taking control of their own fates when the protection of adults proves unreliable.

Readers describe this young adult novel as a gripping adventure story about children hiding from kidnappers. The story keeps a fast pace while exploring themes of loyalty and survival. Readers appreciated: - The realistic portrayal of sibling relationships - Clear, straightforward writing style - Educational elements about WWII evacuees woven naturally into the story - Character development of the three main children - Suspenseful pacing that holds interest Common criticisms: - Some plot points feel contrived - The ending wraps up too quickly - Adult characters lack depth Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (521 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.2/5 (32 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Captures the fear and uncertainty of being on the run without becoming too dark for young readers" - Goodreads "The historical details add richness without overwhelming the story" - Amazon reviewer "Would have liked more resolution with the adult characters" - Goodreads

Carrie's War by Nina Bawden A wartime evacuation story follows children who uncover family secrets while adjusting to life with their new foster family in Wales.

Back Home by Michelle Magorian A young girl returns to post-war Britain after spending five years as an evacuee in America and struggles to reconnect with her family.

The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips by Michael Morpurgo The tale of a girl and her cat unfolds during World War II when their village becomes a training ground for D-Day preparations.

Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Magorian An abused London evacuee finds healing and friendship with a reclusive elderly man in the countryside during World War II.

The Emergency Zoo by Miriam Halahmy Two girls create a secret sanctuary for pets when they learn that British families must put down their animals before the wartime evacuation begins.

🔸 Nina Bawden drew from her own experiences as a wartime evacuee to create authentic child characters facing displacement and adaptation in her stories. 🔸 The book was published in 1964, during a period of significant social change in London, which is reflected in its urban landscape descriptions and themes. 🔸 The fictional country of Tiga was inspired by several Southeast Asian nations that were gaining independence from colonial rule during the 1960s. 🔸 Nina Bawden went on to write over 40 books and became one of Britain's most celebrated children's authors, being appointed CBE in 1995. 🔸 The Kent coastline setting featured in the book remains a popular location for British children's literature, appearing in works from Charles Dickens to Arthur Ransome.