Uninvited Guests is a remarkable story set during the dark days of World War II, by one of the country's leading social historians, Julie Summers. The book captures the spirit of upheaval at the beginning of WWII, when thousands of homes were requisitioned by the government to provide accommodation for the armed forces, secret services, and government offices, as well as vulnerable children, the elderly, and the sick.
Julie Summers offers readers a glimpse behind the scenes of life in some of Britain's grandest houses, which were inhabited by people who would otherwise never have found themselves in such luxurious conditions. For example, Blenheim Palace was occupied by students sleeping in the Long Library, Polish secret agents trained in the gardens of Audley End House, while Brocket Hall was used as a maternity home for women from London's East End.
The contrast of luxury with the everyday activities of those in need is at the heart of this book. This thought-provoking and evocative narrative captures a critical period in Britain's social history.
Reviews for Julie Summers: “Excellent…recommended” Who Do You Think You Are Magazine, “A remarkable collection of stories…a rich and moving book” Mail on Sunday, “Summers is a good and knowledgeable writer…strong, emotional narratives” Independent.
Pages: 464, Year of Publication: 0613, Dimensions: 13x13cm
Manufacturer
- Publisher
- Simon & Schuster
- Skroutz Book Awards 2025
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- Type
- Historical Archive
- Theme
- Historical Archives
- Time Period
- World War II
- Language
- English
- Subtitle
- -
- Cover
- Soft
- Number of Pages
- -
- Release Date
- -
- Publication Date
- -
- Dimensions
- -
- ISBN-13
- 9781471152559
Important information
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