We are coming to the end of Black History Month 2020 and I wanted to showcase Coming to England: An Inspiring True Story Celebrating the Windrush Generation written by Baroness Floella Benjamin and illustrated by Diane Ewen.
Floella shares her experience of coming over from Trinidad to England as a young child. We see her initial excitement when she thought she might meet the queen, and the disappointment when she had to stay behind in Trinidad for a time…
When the move to England finally happened, the queen wasn’t waiting to greet her, in fact England was not as welcoming as she had expected.
Reading this book to my daughters was incredibly emotional for me as my great-grandad made a similar journey from Jamaica to England in the 1930s. For me, the most powerful page was when Floella explained what it was like going to school in England, something picture book age children can really relate to. At first, the children weren’t very nice to her at school, but overtime they’ve become friends.
Diane’s illustrations are fantastic. She has brought this true story to life. Each page is packed with authentic details about life in Trinidad and Windrush England.
Floella and Diane have told this real-life experience with vibrant energy, using relatable emotions for children. From the excitement of meeting the queen, to disappointments, surprises and also friendship and living out your dreams. This is a book that I hope schools and guardians will view as a book that all children, from all backgrounds, can read and enjoy ALL YEAR ROUND.
Published by Macmillan, 8 October 2020
I am very grateful to the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. This voluntary review contains my honest opinion.
Picture Book Perfect 