Once in a while, primary teachers get a break, and here it is: a ghost story with a Second World War setting, based on a true story about a present-day east London school. It has believable contemporary child characters, reflets the cultural mix of inner-city schools and explores themes such as bullying and friendship. Not only that but it's short enought o be read aloud over two lessons. Of course, it was written by a teacher. - Times Educational Supplement
The balance of friendship and fear that crosses several generations gives this short book an atmospheric realism. The excellent illustrations are by John Williams. - Irish Examiner
Warm engaging and intensely thought-provoking [with] the power to widen horizons and increase understanding of the richness of contemporary Britain's various cultures. It should be widely read. - Carousel
This highly original ghost story depicts a touching friendship that spans two different conflicts, cultures and countries. Aisha's first person narrative is immediately accessible to young readers, and Layburn's use of contemporary vocabulary brings a refreshing dose of realism to the dialogue. The themes of bullying and multiculturalism are handled superbly in a very short space of time. This is a great book to keep in the classroom. It's concise enough to read over two lessons and will appeal to both boys and girls. - Books for Keeps
The story flows and the interchangeable landscape helps to communicate the gelling of time and place and human experience. The language is simple, yet effective. A satisfying denouement makes for a smile and the young reader is left with lots of thoughts to ponder and lots of ideas to discuss: I loved this book. - School Librarian
It is refreshing to find a time-slip tale with an immigrant protagonist.
- School Library Journal
This is a book I know I'll read over and over. It's had quite an impact on me, more than I expected it to. There's a huge plot twist at the end which first had me gasping, then had me smiling away. - nayusreadingcorner
Email to a colleague