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Coming to England

by Floella Benjamin, illustrated by Diane Ewen

Interest age: 4 to 5

Published by Macmillan Children's Books, 2020

  • Historical
  • Non-fiction
  • Picture books

About this book

Floella Benjamin, a celebrated writer, actress and television presenter, originally published her memoir Coming to England for junior readers in 1995. This attractive picture-book version simplifies her tale, making it accessible to a much younger audience. 

The story begins in Trinidad, where Floella lives with her parents and five siblings, and describes her move to England in 1960, aged 10, as part of the Windrush generation. 

The simple text provides just the right level of detail, selecting elements of Floella’s tale which young children will understand, such as moving home and starting a new school.

Vibrant illustrations evoke the colour, heat and joy of life on the Caribbean island, which contrasts with the subdued grey tones of the English school playground, where her classmates initially refuse play with Floella because she is black. 

The artwork superbly reflects Floella’s experiences, effectively portraying her sadness at being left in Trinidad, while her parents set up home in London; her excitement at the fifteen-day voyage on an enormous ship to join them; and the realisation of her childhood dream of meeting the Queen. 

A wonderful book which explores an important part of British history.

About the author

Baroness Floella Benjamin, OBE, DL was born in Trinidad in 1949 and came to England in 1960, aged 10. She is an actress, presenter, writer, producer, working peer and an active advocate for the welfare and education of children. She is best known as a presenter of the iconic BBC children’s television programmes Play School and Play Away, and she continues to make children’s programmes. Her broadcasting work has been recognised with a Special Lifetime Achievement BAFTA and OBE. She was appointed a Baroness in the House of Lords in 2010 where she continually promotes legislation to protect children’s wellbeing. In 2012 she was presented with the prestigious J. M. Barrie Award by Action for Children’s Arts, for her lasting contribution to children’s lives through her art. Floella has written thirty books, including Coming to England, a Guardian Children’s Book of the Year 2016, which is used as a resource in schools in social and cross-curricular areas. The book was adapted into an award-winning film for BBC Education. She was also appointed Chancellor of the University of Exeter until 2016 and this year had honorary Freedom of the City of London bestowed upon her.

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