Former Kenilworth teacher's own World War II memories inspire him to write a children’s fictional book

The book follows the experiences of four children, with many humorous and sombre moments
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A former Kenilworth teacher's own World War II memories have inspired him to write a children’s fictional book.

The Blitz Kids by Alan Bytheway is based in Coventry during the start of the war and follows the experiences of four children.

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The author says the stories are all works of imagination, the background is true life and surrounding towns and villages are correctly noted.

Alan Bytheway, alongside a photo of when he was a child.Alan Bytheway, alongside a photo of when he was a child.
Alan Bytheway, alongside a photo of when he was a child.

"From brushes with the Home Guard referred to by the children as the Look, Duck and Vanish brigade, to their meetings with a tramp, humour is ever present," said Alan.

"A visit to Dudley Zoo and a weekend camp near Kenilworth Castle bring on more scenes of great hilarity

"There are sombre moments especially concerning the tramp and the Blitz but joy and happiness remain central to the story.

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"Only the threat of war brings darker moments, culminating in the Blitz itself when the children are hoping to escape with their lives."

Alan Bytheway at his Addingham home.Alan Bytheway at his Addingham home.
Alan Bytheway at his Addingham home.

Alan was born in Foleshill, Coventry, in 1932, and worked at Courtaulds and the Self Changing Gear Company before leaving to take up a career in teaching. He worked at both Kenilworth Grammar School and St. John’s County Junior School, where he was the deputy head teacher.

For two years he was an elected member of Kenilworth Urban District Council. He lived in both Kenilworth and Leamington and was a member of Leamington and County Golf Club.

As a child aged seven at the outbreak of the war he experienced the war at first hand and his home was badly damaged.

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After taking up a lectureship at Ilkley College of Education he now lives in Addingham, West Yorkshire but his Coventry roots have never been forgotten.

To buy the book, search for 'Alan Bytheway The Blitz Kids' in Amazon or visit https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blitz-Kids-Alan-John-Bytheway/dp/1398400815

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