The Doorstep Child

A Heartwarming Tale of Wartime Courage

The Doorstep Child by Annie Murray (2017, Pan Macmillan) transports readers to 1940s Britain, where ordinary citizens risk everything to protect the most vulnerable. This moving novel captures the spirit of the Home Front through the eyes of those who opened their homes—and hearts—to children in need.

Meet the Kirwan Family

When a bomb raid forces Sarah Kirwan to evacuate London, she and her husband take in shy, tearful Lily, a child frightened by loss and uncertainty. As rationing bites and air raids loom, the Kirwans’ once-quiet household transforms into a sanctuary of bedtime stories, hidden sweets, and whispered reassurances.

Life Beneath the Blitz

Annie Murray vividly recreates the ration queues, blacked-out streets, and makeshift schools that defined a nation under attack. Through Lily’s wide-eyed wonder and Sarah’s steely resolve, we witness how adversity can forge unexpected bonds and bring out the best in ordinary people.

Themes of Community and Compassion

At its core, this story celebrates empathy, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Murray explores how love can flourish even amid bombed-out buildings and heartache—and how a single act of kindness can change countless lives.

A Must-Read for Historical Fiction Fans

Rich in period detail and brimming with hope, The Doorstep Child is perfect for anyone who delights in stories of courage and community. Prepare to be uplifted by this unforgettable portrait of wartime Britain.