The Soldier's Return cover art

The Soldier's Return

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The Soldier's Return

By: Melvyn Bragg
Narrated by: Mark McGann
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About this listen

 Winner of the WH Smith Literary Award, 2000.

When Sam Richardson returns in 1946 from the 'Forgotten War' in Burma to Wigton in Cumbria, he finds the town little changed. But the war has changed him, broadening his horizons as well as leaving him with traumatic memories. In addition, his six-year-old son now barely remembers him, and his wife has gained a sense of independence from her wartime jobs. As all three strive to adjust, the bonds of loyalty and love are stretched to breaking point in this taut, and profoundly moving novel.

©1999 Melvyn Bragg (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction War

Critic reviews

"An impressive performance, not to be missed." ( Booklist)
"Right from the start...it is clear we are in the hands of a compassionate, clear-sighted writer....The book is a small classic, deeply touching and true." ( Publishers Weekly)
All stars
Most relevant
What a disappointment. I would have given up after a couple of chapters but read to the end for my book group.
Why must we be told all the time what all the characters are feeling when we can imagine these feelings as readers?
Not recommended.

Plodding story

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