When the Sky Falls

WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE MONTH JUNE 2021 ‘An extraordinary story with historical and family truth at its heart, that tells us as much about the present as the past. Deeply felt, movingly written, a remarkable achievement’ Michael Morpurgo 1941. War is raging. And one angry boy has been sent to the city, where bombers rule the skies. There, Joseph will live with Mrs F, a gruff woman with no fondness for children. Her only loves are the rundown zoo she owns and its mighty silverback gorilla, Adonis. As the weeks pass, bonds deepen and secrets are revealed, but if the bombers set Adonis rampaging free, will either of them be able to end the life of the one thing they truly love? Inspired by a true story. Product description Review "An extraordinary story with historical and family truth at its heart, that tells us as much about the present as the past. Deeply felt, movingly written, a remarkable achievement" -- Michael Morpurgo "Uplifting ... should whet appetites for wartime classics such as Carrie’s War and Goodnight Mr Tom" ― Telegraph "Utterly brilliant, original and so very, very moving... a triumph for kids' lit" -- Sarah Crossan "A beautifully written historical adventure story... impossible to put down" ― BookTrust "A beautiful and majestic piece of work... Manages to be raw and gentle, harrowing and uplifting, all while racing inexorably towards its unforgettable end. Wow. Children's literature at its best" -- Jonathan Stroud About the Author Born and raised in the north of England, Phil is the author of over twenty acclaimed, award-winning books for children and teenagers. He has worked as a carer, a dramatherapist, a bookseller and a publisher, and loves talking at schools and festivals around the world. He lives on the side of a very steep hill with his partner, their five children and two dogs.