51OFrKOM6VS._SL500_Synopsis: “London, November 1941. Following the departure of the formidable Henrietta Bird from Woman’s Friend magazine, things are looking up for Emmeline Lake as she takes on the challenge of becoming a young wartime advice columnist. Her relationship with boyfriend Charles (now stationed back in the UK) is blossoming, while Emmy’s best friend Bunty, still reeling from the very worst of the Blitz, is bravely looking to the future. Together, the friends are determined to Make a Go of It. When the Ministry of Information calls on Britain’s women’s magazines to help recruit desperately needed female workers to the war effort, Emmy is thrilled to be asked to step up and help. But when she and Bunty meet a young woman who shows them the very real challenges that women war workers face, Emmy must tackle a life-changing dilemma between doing her duty and standing by her friends. Every bit as funny, heartwarming, and touching as Dear Mrs. Bird, Yours Cheerfully is a celebration of friendship—a testament to the strength of women and the importance of lifting each other up, even in the most challenging times.“

My Review

This was a wonderful sequel to Dear Mrs Bird that I finally listened to, and loved last summer.

This book follows straight on from Dear Mrs Bird, with Emmy still working at the magazine. This time she is involved with a recruitment drive for The Ministry of Information, in getting Britain’s women working for the war effort. Coincidentally her and Bunty make friends with a young war widow, who just happens to be working in a munitions factory, which leads to Emmy writing articles for the magazine about women workers.

I learnt so much about the Home Front in this book. I didn’t realise that women were actually conscripted into war work. I knew about factory workers, land girls, WRNS and WAAFs, but didn’t haven’t clue that a lot of them  were conscripted. Also the appalling fate of war widows was highlighted, and the lack of childcare facilities whilst the women were having to go out to work. The author’s note at the end of the book was really interesting, so don’t miss out on that.

Anna Popplewell’s narration was perfect again. I really can’t imagine anyone else reading these books, and hope she narrates the next one.

If you enjoy uplifting books set during WW2, I highly recommend this on audio, and can’t wait to listen to the follow up, Mrs Porter Calling.

 

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