Winner of the Costa Children's Book Award

THE TIMES and SUNDAY TIMES Children's Book of the Year

The second sensational middle-grade standalone that follows an epic voyage from England to France in the aftermath of WW1, from the bestselling author of The Children of Castle Rock.

In the aftermath of World War One, everyone is trying to rebuild their lives. If Ben is to avoid being sent back to the orphanage, he needs to find his brother Sam, wounded in action and is now missing. Lotti's horrible aunt and uncle want to send her away to boarding-school (when she has just so successfully managed to get expelled from her last one!). And Clara, their young teacher, is waiting for news of her missing fiancé…

Just as they think they've found their feet in the new order, disaster strikes, and Lotti and Ben must get away. And so they hatch a plan - to cross the Channel on Ben's narrowboat and find Sam. And there's something in France that Lotti is looking for, too…

Buffeted by storms, chased by the police, Lotti, Ben, Clara and a growing number of dogs set out on an epic journey, on the search for lost loved ones and a place to call home.

“One of the most compelling, joyous, tearjerking and delightful reads of the year.” THE SUNDAY TIMES, Children's Book of the Week

“Empowering, rollicking, wistful and joyful.” HILARY MCKAY, author of The Skylarks' War

“Magnificent odyssey . . . a rich and rewarding read . . . it deserves prizes.” NEW STATESMAN

“A wonderful adventure.” PIERS TORDAY, author of The Frozen Sea

“Fast-paced and fascinating.” BOOKTRUST