London Calling
London Calling by Edward Bloor is an illustrated novel published by Random House Children’s Books on February 12, 2008. This 304-page book follows Martin Conway, a young boy navigating a family history filled with both heroes and disgraces. As he grapples with his own identity, Martin encounters a mysterious boy named Jimmy Harker, who appears in his dreams with an urgent request for help. Set against the backdrop of London during WWII, the narrative explores themes of family dynamics and personal growth.
Readers will find that Martin’s experiences with Jimmy profoundly impact his understanding of courage and responsibility. The story delves into the complexities of familial relationships and the weight of legacy, as Martin witnesses significant historical events and figures through his dreams. With elements of science fiction and time travel, the novel invites readers to reflect on the nature of heroism and the choices one makes in the face of adversity. London Calling presents a unique blend of action and adventure, making it a thought-provoking addition to young adult fiction.
Official synopsis Publisher
Martin Conway comes from a family filled with heroes and disgraces. His grandfather was a statesman who worked at the US Embassy in London during WWII. His father is an alcoholic who left his family. His sister is an overachieving Ivy League graduate. And Martin? Martin is stuck in between–floundering.
But during the summer after 7th grade, Martin meets a boy who will change his life forever. Jimmy Harker appears one night with a deceptively simple question: Will you help?
Where did this boy come from, with his strange accent and urgent request? Is he a dream? It’s the most vivid dream Martin’s ever had. And he meets Jimmy again and again–but how can his dreams be set in London during the Blitz? How can he see his own grandather, standing outside the Embassy? How can he wake up with a head full of people and facts and events that he certainly didn’t know when he went to sleep–but which turn out to be verifiably real?
The people and the scenes Martin witnesses have a profound effect on him. They become almost more real to him than his waking companions. And he begins to believe that maybe he can help Jimmy. Or maybe that he must help Jimmy, precisely because all logic and reason argue against it.
This is a truly remarkable and deeply affecting novel about fathers and sons, heroes and scapegoats. About finding a way to live with faith and honor and integrity. And about having an answer to the question: What did you do to help?
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