The compelling new book from the author of The Girl in the Ragged Shawl and The Orphans of Halfpenny Street
Danny gets a terrible start in life and runs away from his drunken father when he thrashes him to within an inch of his life. But life on the streets is no better and he falls into the clutches of evil men, finding that being big and strong for his age is no protection from the people who want to do him harm.
Help comes in the form of Constable Jones, who is determined to help out the children who need it, and new friends Ron and Cassie, who are also runaways. Can Dannys dream of a loving home ever be a reality?
Delve into the heart-wrenching and ultimately hopeful world of Danny in Cathy Sharp's "An Orphan's Dream (Button Street Orphans)," the captivating follow-up to "The Girl in the Ragged Shawl" and "The Orphans of Halfpenny Street." This poignant historical saga, set against the backdrop of 20th-century Britain, explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the enduring power of hope amidst unimaginable adversity. Danny's life begins in turmoil. Escaping a brutal and abusive home where his drunken father inflicts unbearable violence, he flees to the unforgiving streets, believing anything is better than the horrors he leaves behind. However, the harsh reality of life as a runaway soon becomes apparent. Vulnerable and alone, Danny falls prey to unscrupulous characters who exploit his youth and strength. He quickly learns that even a strong physique is no defense against the cruelty and depravity lurking in the shadows. Just when all seems lost, a glimmer of hope appears in the form of Constable Jones, a compassionate policeman dedicated to rescuing and protecting vulnerable children like Danny. Jones sees beyond Danny's hardened exterior and recognizes the frightened boy yearning for a better life. Alongside Constable Jones, Danny finds solace and camaraderie with fellow runaways Ron and Cassie. Together, they form an unlikely family, bound by shared experiences of hardship and a mutual desire for a brighter future. Cathy Sharp masterfully weaves a tale of hardship and hope, drawing readers into Danny's world and evoking the sights, sounds, and struggles of his era. "An Orphan's Dream" is more than just a story of survival; it's a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and the transformative power of kindness and connection. Will Danny ever escape the clutches of his past and find the loving home he so desperately craves? Can Constable Jones, Ron, and Cassie provide the stability and support he needs to heal and rebuild his life? Embark on a journey of courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of belonging in "An Orphan's Dream," a must-read for fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and stories that celebrate the enduring strength of the human heart. Explore themes of found family, the devastating effects of poverty and abuse, and the unwavering hope that can blossom even in the darkest of circumstances. Perfect for readers who enjoy authors like Dilly Court and Katie Flynn. Experience the emotional depth and compelling narrative that have made Cathy Sharp a beloved voice in British historical fiction.