The Urchin's Song

The approach of the twentieth century means little to Josie Burns and her family; living in Sunderland's slum area, they battle dirt, cold and hunger on a daily basis. Josie's brothers and sisters are terrified of their violent alcoholic father, but Josie is not like the rest, for she has something that will enable her to rise out of the slums: a beautiful singing voice, with which even as a child she earns enough pennies to keep her father happy. When she discovers that her father is trying to put her younger sister, Gertie, on the game, Josie and Gertie flee the family home, taking refuge with a friend. By educating herself and taking singing lessons, Josie starts on the journey to success and security - but can she also find love

“If you like gritty, rags-to-riches Northern sagas, you'll enjoy this”

Praise for Rita Bradshaw: 'Catherine Cookson fans will enjoy discovering a new author who writes in a similar vein Home and Family
Family Circle
What an emotional rollercoaster ride of a book! It grabs your attention from page one and does not let go until the end Sunderland Echo
Displaying an uncanny ability to spin a good yarn Sunderland Echo
All published writers have skill and creativity, but a few have more. It's called magic. I'm beginning to believe Bradshaw has it! Historical Novels Review

Rita Bradshaw was born in Northamptonshire, where she still lives today with her husband, their children and two dogs. She has written many successful novels under a pseudonym and several delightful sagas under her own name.

The approach of the twentieth century means little to Josie Burns and her family; living in Sunderland's slum area, they battle dirt, cold and hunger on a daily basis. Josie's brothers and sisters are terrified of their violent alcoholic father, but Josie is not like the rest, for she has something that will enable her to rise out of the slums: a beautiful singing voice, with which even as a child she earns enough pennies to keep her father happy. When she discovers that her father is trying to put her younger sister, Gertie, on the game, Josie and Gertie flee the family home, taking refuge with a friend. By educating herself and taking singing lessons, Josie starts on the journey to success and security - but can she also find love

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.