Goodnight Mister Tom

by Michelle Magorian
Goodnight Mister Tom cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Historical Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 842
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780141329703
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2010-06-03
  • Formats: 108
  • Reviews: 3
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Paperback • £7.99 Hardback • £12.99–£14.99 CD-Audio • £12.99
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Format • £7.59–£14.24

Goodnight Mister Tom tells the story of Willie Beech, a young boy sent to the countryside for safety during the onset of World War II. Initially withdrawn and mistreated, Willie slowly begins to thrive under the care of Tom Oakley, an elderly man who provides him with the love and stability he has never known. Their bond deepens as Willie discovers newfound happiness and confidence, but their new life together is threatened when Willie's mother summons him back to London. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of kindness, making it a poignant and unforgettable read. Winner of the Guardian Children's Fiction Award, this story captures the essence of resilience and the impact of human connection.

Reviews
Jemima Pett · Jemima Pett · 2021-05-01
classic 4.75

The book is a classic that has left a lasting impression as a children's book of high calibre.

Jemima Pett reflects on how 'Goodnight Mister Tom' has become a classic children's book that stands alongside other timeless stories. She highlights the book's ability to seep into the minds of readers, leaving a lasting impression. Pett appreciates the exceptional storytelling and the deep emotional impact the book has, making it a must-read for both children and adults.

Quick quotes

    Goodnight Mister Tom had already seeped into the recesses of my brain as a children's book to match the credentials of those such as Wind in the Willows.

    It's a superbly written and deeply moving tale.

    Which shows that even the most unlikely people can become exceptional.

Susan's Bookshelves · Susan Elkin · 2021-01-01
uplifting 4.50

The book sensitively addresses mental health, child abuse, and bereavement while remaining richly optimistic.

Susan Elkin praises 'Goodnight Mister Tom' for its sensitive handling of complex and heavy themes such as mental health and child abuse. Despite these serious topics, she finds the book to be richly optimistic and positive. She appreciates how the story manages to uplift readers even as it tackles difficult subjects, making it a deeply moving and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    It deals sensitively with issues such as mental health, child abuse, death and bereavement among many other things.

    It's richly optimistic and positive.

    It's a beautifully written story.

Julia's Books · 2020-11-12
thoughtful 4.00

The book is a tough read with dark moments but ends on a happy note. It provides young readers with an insightful perspective on serious issues without being frightening.

This reviewer acknowledges that 'Goodnight Mister Tom' is a challenging read due to its dark themes, but they appreciate that it handles these topics sensitively. They believe it offers young readers a valuable glimpse into serious issues like mental health and child abuse, all while maintaining a hopeful and optimistic tone. The happy ending is seen as a crucial element that balances the heavier parts of the story.

Quick quotes

    It is a tough read, though it does have a happy ending.

    It is quite dark in parts, but not in a frightening way.

    It will give young readers an insight into...

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