A wonderfully nostalgic story about one boy's determination to follow his dreams from the award-winning author of Goodnight Mr Tom.

Amid the rubble of post-war Britain, Ralph is entranced by the theatre. He loves seeing the performances, talking to the actors, the buzz of the audience, and the corridors and dressing rooms backstage. But how can a working-class boy achieve his dream when there is no opportunity for theatre training?

Michelle Magorian takes a lens to post-war Britain, revealing its prejudices, its quirks and its warmth. The perfect read for everyone who loved The Book Thief or Carrie's War.

'A fascinating story and a vivid picture of Britain in the 1940s' - The Times.

Michelle Magorian is the best-selling author of numerous award-winning stories for children, including A Spoonful of Jam, A Little Love Song, and Cuckoo in the Nest and Just Henry. Her extensive list of awards includes the Costa Prize and the Guardian Children's Fiction Award. Michelle has worked in theatre, television and films and has an established reputation as a comedienne, performing in plays and musicals.