Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets

Yvonne Young's childhood was spent in the shipyards and factories of Newcastle-upon-Tyne,a time of great hardship and poverty. Despite this,she always tried to see the bright side and enjoyed hearing about the characters that made up her area. Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets is an affectionate,at times hard-hitting,and beautifully evocative portrait of life in a city that has changed beyond recognition.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 288 pages
\n Publication date: 07 March 2019
\n Publisher: John Blake Publishing Ltd
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Born in the 1950s in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Yvonne Young's childhood was immersed in the bustling heart of the city's industry. Surrounded by her grandfather, a ship painter, her Uncle Tom, who contributed to their construction, and neighbors employed at the local armaments factory, the shipyards and factories became the lifeblood of her community. Growing up in the aftermath of the Second World War, Yvonne witnessed firsthand the struggles and hardships that many families faced. Despite the adversities, people found ways to make the most of their limited resources. Housewives competed fiercely to keep their doorsteps clean, and children transformed derelict houses into makeshift playgrounds. Yvonne also relished hearing stories about the colorful characters that inhabited her area, from the chimney sweep to the occasional sight of the rag-and-bone man. Despite facing challenges at home and in the education system that didn't anticipate her going beyond the local factory, Yvonne maintained a positive outlook.

Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets is a poignant and evocative portrayal of life in a city that has undergone significant transformation. At times, it is affectionate, while also delivering a hard-hitting account of the realities faced by its residents. Above all, it is a story about family, friendship, and navigating the challenges with a healthy dose of Geordie humor.

The book delves into the lives of various characters, each with their unique stories and experiences. From the working-class families struggling to make ends meet to the young individuals dreaming of a better future, Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets captures the essence of community and resilience. The author's vivid descriptions and authentic voice bring the city to life, allowing readers to feel a sense of connection and nostalgia.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its portrayal of family relationships. Yvonne's family, consisting of her parents, siblings, and grandparents, plays a central role in her life. The dynamics between them are complex, with love, loyalty, and conflicts intertwining. The author explores the challenges that families face, such as poverty, unemployment, and illness, and how they navigate through them together. The relationships between Yvonne and her friends are also highlighted, showcasing the strength and support that can be found in close friendships.

In addition to its portrayal of family and community, Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets offers a glimpse into the social and cultural changes that Newcastle-upon-Tyne has undergone. The city's industrial past is vividly depicted, with the shipyards and factories serving as the backdrop for the characters' lives. However, the book also acknowledges the city's transformation into a modern, vibrant hub, with new developments and cultural attractions. The author's observations on the changes and the impact they have had on the community are thought-provoking and provide a valuable perspective on the evolution of cities.

Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets is not just a story about a particular place; it is a universal tale of human experiences. The themes of family, friendship, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds. The book's humor and warmth make it an enjoyable and relatable read, even for those who have never visited Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

In conclusion, Cobbled Streets and Penny Sweets is a captivating and heartfelt portrait of life in a city that has undergone significant transformation. Through its vivid descriptions, authentic voice, and exploration of complex themes, the book offers a glimpse into the lives of its residents and the community that surrounds them. Whether you are a resident of Newcastle-upon-Tyne or simply interested in learning about different cultures and communities, this book is a must-read.

\n Weight: 228g\n
Dimension: 197 x 128 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789460124\n \n