Orphaned by a World War II bombing raid, 11-year-old Jimmy finds himself alone in the world with no family to support him. Reading Oliver Twist in school taught him what happens to children in his situation. He is determined to go it alone and avoid being sent to the workhouse or the orphanage. But it isn't going to be easy. In the days of food and clothing rationing, air raids, blackout restrictions and fears of invasion, he has to keep food in his mouth and a roof over his head in addition to avoiding the authorities. A gripping tale of determination, courage and friendship set in the harshest of circumstances, The Phoenix Child takes hold of readers and doesn't let go until the last page. Author Henry J. Southern is a retired Business Studies Lecturer. A widower, he lives on the outskirts of Sheffield, England on the very edge of open countryside. In addition to writing, he cooks, gardens and volunteers time to help children with their reading at the local primary school.