Coming to England

by Floella Benjamin
Coming to England cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Biography and Memoir
Technical:
  • ID: 795
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781509848317
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2016-10-06
  • Formats: 73
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99 Board book • £7.99

Dame Floella Benjamin's Coming to England is a heartwarming and powerful memoir that recounts her childhood journey from the tropical paradise of Trinidad to the bustling streets of London in 1960. As part of a generation of West Indians encouraged to help rebuild post-war Britain, Floella and her siblings reunite with their parents, only to face the harsh realities of racism and rejection. The book is not just a personal story but also a historical account, enriched with additional information and stunning illustrations by Michael Frith. /n/nFloella's story is one of resilience and determination, as she learns to navigate her new life in England. Despite the challenges, she finds strength in her family and her own resolve, ultimately thriving in her new home. This memoir serves as an inspirational reminder of the power of courage and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Reviews
Just Imagine · 2025-09-20
heartwarming 4.50

The book is praised for its rich illustrations and the emotional impact of Floella's family's sacrifices, making it a poignant and heartwarming read.

This reviewer was deeply touched by the richly illustrated pages that bring Floella's story to life. They appreciated the emotional depth of the book, highlighting the sacrifices made by Floella's family. The reviewer found the book to be a poignant and heartwarming read, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf. They also noted how the book's themes of family, courage, and resilience make it a timeless story that will resonate with many readers.

Quick quotes

    It was great to read this book and appreciate the sacrifices her family had made to move to England in the 1960s.

    The richly illustrated pages by Diane Ewen bring Floella's story to life.

    A poignant and heartwarming read that resonates with many readers.

Picturebook Perfect · 2020-10-30
heartwarming 4.50

The illustrations by Diane are praised for bringing the true story to life, filled with authentic details about life in Trinidad. The reviewer appreciates how the book captures Floella's journey and experiences.

This reviewer was captivated by the vivid illustrations that truly bring Floella's story to life. Each page is packed with details that make the narrative feel authentic and immersive. They particularly enjoyed how the book captures the essence of Floella's journey, making it both personal and relatable. The reviewer found the book to be a beautiful representation of Floella's experiences, making it a joy to read.

Quick quotes

    Diane's illustrations are fantastic. She has brought this true story to life.

    Each page is packed with authentic details about life in Trinidad.

    The book captures Floella's journey in a way that is both personal and relatable.

Father Reading Every Day · 2020-09-25
inspiring 4.75

The book is described as an awesome autobiography that highlights the love and bond of family, capturing a story of courage, risk, and triumph.

This reviewer found the book to be a powerful autobiography that beautifully captures the strength of family bonds. They were moved by the story of courage and triumph over adversity, making it an inspiring read. The reviewer appreciated how the book conveys the emotional journey of Floella and her family, making it a deeply moving experience. They also noted the book's ability to resonate with readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    This is a really awesome autobiography that captures the love and bond of family.

    The story of courage, risk, and triumph over adversity.

    A deeply moving experience that resonates with readers of all ages.

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