Coming to England

by Floella Benjamin
Coming to England cover
Good Books rating 4.56
Biography and Memoir
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Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99 Board book • £7.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 795
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781509848317
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2016-10-06
  • Formats: 73
  • Reviews: 4

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 cold, 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 after a long separation, only to face the harsh realities of racism and rejection. The book is not only a personal story but also a historical account of the Windrush generation's experiences, beautifully illustrated by Michael Frith and enriched with additional historical context. Through her experiences, Floella learns that resilience and hard work are key to overcoming adversity. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of determination in the face of prejudice. The memoir is an inspirational read that highlights the importance of courage and the impact of immigration on both individuals and societies.

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.

Books for Topics · 2023-01-01
inspiring 4.50

The story is praised for its celebration of British Black Caribbean heritage and its educational value. It is noted for opening doors to learning about the impact of immigration.

This review highlights how the book beautifully explores and celebrates what it means to be a British person with Black Caribbean heritage. It is seen as an important educational tool that opens doors to learning about the impact of immigration and the experiences of those who moved to England. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to bring these stories to life and make them accessible to young readers.

Quick quotes

    The story explores and celebrates what it means to be a British person with Black Caribbean heritage, as well as opening doors to learning about the impact of ...

    It is an important educational tool that opens doors to learning about the impact of immigration.

    The book beautifully explores and celebrates what it means to be a British person with Black Caribbean heritage.

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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