This book is about a six year old orphan called Arthur Hobhouse who is separated from his sister Kitty, and sent to live in Australia after the Second World War. All Arthur has from his old life in England is a lucky key which Kitty gave to him before he sailed away. As time goes on Arthur remembers less and less about his sister but always hopes that they will see each other again.
His life in Australia is very tough, but Arthur makes a lifelong friendship with another orphan which gives him strength. Eventually they both find happiness with a very kind lady who takes them in as well as taking in lost and injured animals. Arthur has many ups and downs and marries and has a daughter who like her father has a love of the ocean and sailing. They agree to sail together in a boat lovingly built by friends and family off to England to see if they can find Kitty. This has been Arthur’s life long dream.
I loved this book because it reminded me of my own father, who loved the sea and sailing. It is a wonderful story with some sadness, excitement, adventure and happiness. Another amazing book from Michael Morpurgo.
Lesley, Oakgrove School
