Remembrance by Theresa Breslin
Published by Corgi

Set in a Scottish village at the beginning of WW1, this story centres around two families – teenage brothers and sisters - and how their lives become intertwined despite very different social circumstances. Inevitably, the theme of war is central, showing its futility and waste of young lives, and this is dealt with very movingly. The story also, however, shows how the war brings new opportunities for young women; the two sisters become lifelong friends as they do their bit to support the war effort in different ways.

Much of the story is told through letters, as the soldiers write home about their experiences at the Front, and the girls tell of what is happening at home and, later, about their nursing experiences in Belgium.

A well-researched novel, you can hardly fail to be moved, as you follow the account of these young people’s lives. Although it took place nearly a century ago, you will feel as if you yourself might have been there during that terrible War, and you will certainly be thankful that you weren’t. The author urges us to remember and, indeed, how can we dare to forget?