The Family From One End Street

by Eve Garnett
The Family From One End Street cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Children's Fiction
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Paperback • £7.99
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Technical
  • ID: 832
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780141966656
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2010-06-03
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 4

The Family from One End Street invites readers into the bustling life of the Ruggles family, who live in the quaint town of Otwell. With a dustman father, a washerwoman mother, and a house full of lively children, each with their own unique personalities, the story captures the essence of family life in a small community. From practical Lily Rose to the mischievous twins James and John, the family's daily adventures and interactions paint a vivid picture of their world. This beloved classic, recognized with the prestigious Carnegie Medal, offers a timeless glimpse into the joys and challenges of family dynamics and community living./n/nPublished in 1937, The Family from One End Street has remained a cherished children's book for generations. The narrative beautifully portrays the simplicity and richness of everyday life, making it a heartwarming read for both children and adults. The book's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia and warmth, celebrating the bonds of family and the charm of small-town life.

Reviews
VinceReview · 2024-05-15
charming 4.50

The book, first published in 1937, is celebrated for its charming illustrations and authentic portrayal of children's perspectives. It remains a timeless classic that resonates with readers of all ages.

This reviewer emphasizes the enduring appeal of the book, first published in 1937 and awarded the Carnegie Medal in 1938. They appreciate the author's ability to capture the essence of children's thoughts and behaviors, making the story relatable and engaging. The illustrations, drawn by the author herself, are praised for enhancing the overall reading experience. The reviewer finds the book to be a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers, highlighting its universal themes and charming narrative.

Quick quotes

    This kids' book was first published in 1937 and won the Carnegie Medal in 1938.

    The author, Eve Garnett, also drew all her own illustrations.

    The book remains a timeless classic that resonates with readers of all ages.

Did You Ever Stop to Think · 2022-09-30
enchanting 4.50

The reviewer praises the richly colored characters and new adventures, highlighting the book's ability to create a vivid world. They appreciate the depth of the characters and the engaging storytelling.

This reviewer is captivated by the vibrant characters and the fresh adventures presented in the book. They particularly enjoy how the author brings a whole new world to life, filled with colorful personalities and engaging narratives. The reviewer also notes that the book never loses sight of its core characters, making it a compelling read. The book's ability to balance new adventures with familiar charm is what stands out the most.

Quick quotes

    It is a whole new world into being, full of richly coloured characters to meet and new adventures to have.

    But we're never dislodged from the characters we know and love.

    The book's ability to balance new adventures with familiar charm is what stands out the most.

ReadAtHomeMom · 2017-01-12
heartwarming 4.20

The author's skill in capturing authentic dialogue and children's perspectives is commendable. The book offers a heartwarming and realistic portrayal of family life, making it a delightful read.

The reviewer praises Eve Garnett's ability to craft authentic dialogue and understand the inner workings of children's minds, which adds depth to the story. They find the portrayal of the Ruggles family and their everyday adventures to be heartwarming and realistic. The reviewer appreciates how the book captures the essence of family life in a small town during challenging economic times, making it a relatable and enjoyable read. The reviewer also notes the book's enduring appeal, making it a cherished classic for both children and adults.

Quick quotes

    Garnett has a wonderful ear for dialogue and a true understanding of the way kids' minds work.

    The novel gives a fairer representation of the working class than many other books.

    The family has struggles and little adventures and great joys.

The Guardian · 2008-12-05
refreshing 4.00

The book breaks away from the typical children's literature of its time, offering a fresh and engaging perspective. The characters and their adventures are vividly brought to life, making it a standout choice for young readers.

The reviewer highlights how this book marked a significant departure from the usual children's literature available at the time, particularly breaking away from the dominant influence of Enid Blyton. They appreciate the richly drawn characters and the engaging adventures that make the story compelling. The reviewer fondly recalls how this book stood out in their childhood reading experiences, making it a memorable and impactful read. The depiction of a working-class family in a small town during difficult economic times is noted as a refreshing and realistic portrayal.

Quick quotes

    It was the first book to break the stranglehold of Enid Blyton.

    The Family from One End Street marked a series of firsts for me.

    The characters and their adventures are vividly brought to life.

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