Our John Willie

by Catherine Cookson

1st edition paperback, vg+

Genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Childrens, Romance, British Literature, Novels, Adult

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1974

About the author

Catherine Cookson was born in Tyne Dock, the illegitimate daughter of a poverty-stricken woman, Kate, who Catherine believed was her older sister. Catherine began work in service but eventually moved south to Hastings, where she met and married Tom Cookson, a local grammar-school master.

Although she was originally acclaimed as a regional writer - her novel The Round Tower won the Winifred Holtby Award for the best regional novel of 1968 - her readership quickly spread throughout the world, and her many best-selling novels established her as one of the most popular contemporary woman novelist. She received an OBE in 1985, was created a Dame of the British Empire in 1993, and was appointed an Honorary Fellow of St Hilda's College, Oxford, in 1997.

For many years she lived near Newcastle upon Tyne.

Reviews

[Shirley Revill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book a long time ago and really enjoyed it. Loved Catherine Cookson's stories and still love them today. Recommended

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of John Willie is both heart-warming and wrenching. I love her books; she is one of my favorite authors. This book I would recommend.

[Alison Chastain · Rating 5 out of 5]

couldn’t put down

Another great book by Catherine Cookson,, all her books are page Turner’s. You just have to see what happens next.

[Tara Chevrestt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, but short book. Davy and his younger brother, a deaf mute named John Willie are orphaned in a mining accident. England in the late 1800s didn't offer up many options to orphans. Davy faces the workhouse or the mines. Thankfully, he ends up with a surprise benefactor, Miss Peamarsh. But Miss Peamarsh has a secret that could blow up in everyone's face.

This had my attention from page one and held it throughout. The ending left me smiling and feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. However, I hated the word "dumb" being attached to the word deaf all the time.

[Melissa James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Years ago I remember seeing books by this author in the library but I had never read any. I decided to try one, although I don't know how many of her books are in print anymore. I really enjoyed the book, I appreciated the characters who were kind and honorable even during very stressful times.

[Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book right up until the end which seemed too unbelievable. Overall, Cookson's ability to paint vivid imagery through her words brings the characters and the setting to life, immersing readers in the world she has created. The story follows the journey of John Willie, filled with ups and downs, touching on themes of love, resilience, and determination. Sadly, I was disappointed in the unrealistic ending.

[Cornelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interessantes Buch, das schätzungsweise Anfang des 20. Jahrhunderts spielt und die Arbeitsbedingungen der armen Landbevölkerung (Minenarbeieter). Leider stimmt bei der deutschen Ausgabe weder der Titel noch die Inhaltsangabe, da ist alles vertauscht, was nur geht

[Tony · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read, especially for the younger folks, as it brings home the old saying, "Treat others as you would wish others to treat you." Catherine Cookson is my favourite author; I love them all, but this one is a little gem.

[Jacob Bembry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book follows the adventures of Davey and his deaf mute brother, John Willie, from tragedy in the coal mines to finding an eccentric woman with a mystery to care for and nurture them.

[Julianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think perhaps the textbook story of lost boys, evil villain, eccentric but kind hearted spinster was just a bit too routine for my tastes. Well written but not that exciting.

[BookMutant · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way you follow the character feels a bit like A catcher in the rye. Certainly a good read!

[Terry Filkohazi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so happy everything worked out for everyone!!

[Lynn Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Davy and his deaf and dumb younger brother, John Willie, find themselves homeless after their father is killed in a mining accident. Eccentric Miss Peamarsh offers a chance for a new future - but then Davy stumbles across a horrifying secret from Miss Peamarsh's past and it could ruin everything.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two young orphan boys fend for themselves.

[Kate Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great kid's read. I loved it as a child and can still read it now I'm in my second chilhood, age 56.

[Lili · Rating 3 out of 5]

Children's book, unusual offering from Cookson, but very enjoyable read.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of how love wins out in the end! Extremely enjoyable!!!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a sweet story of hope and love . I've read this book a few times, have reccommended it to others.

[Diane Wachter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Our John Willie, Catherine Cookson, RDC-M #1-75, 1977. Two orphans struggle to stay alive by stealing food from a formidible recluse. Very good.