The Story
In the aftermath of the Second World War, Elsie knows that the summer holidays are going to be constantly interrupted by tormentor Marjorie Bush and her gang. Elise’s brother Harry is starting work at the paper mill, leaving Elsie with no one to play with and no one to protect her for an entire four weeks. Elsie accidentally stumbles across the Palace Theatre where they are putting on the production ‘Pink String and Sealing Wax’. Hastily, Elsie decides to try out for the main part of Eva, seeking refuge on stage. She knows that if she gets the part, she will be safe from Marjorie and will not have to suffer the constant boredom the holidays will bring. But is she good enough? Does she have the courage? And could Geraldine, a troubled friend from school with a tough background, turn the whole show upside down?
My Thoughts
This book is filled with courage, laughter and sadness. I loved Elsie’s bravery and support for the other characters throughout the book. Michelle Magorian’s Good Night Mister Tom is a book that really moved me and I am looking forward to reading her first book about Elsie, Cuckoo in the Nest.
