Fathom Five (novel) facts for kids
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First edition
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| Author | Robert Westall |
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| Country | Great Britain |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's Historical novel |
| Set in | Garmouth, Great Britain |
| Publisher | Macmillan |
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Publication date
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1979 |
| Media type | print, paperback |
| Pages | 258 |
| ISBN | 0333273850 |
| LC Class | Subclass PZ |
| Preceded by | The Machine Gunners |
Fathom Five is an exciting novel written by Robert Westall in 1979. It's the follow-up story to his earlier book, The Machine Gunners (1975). This book mixes thrilling spy adventures with the everyday challenges of growing up as a teenager. The characters are a bit older now than in the first book. This means the story explores themes that fit their age, like becoming more mature. A big part of the novel is about the main character, Chas, growing from a boy into a young man. He faces some very difficult decisions.
Contents
Exploring Wartime Britain
While The Machine Gunners focused on bombings and the fear of invasion in 1941, Fathom Five gives us a deeper look into World War II. It shows what life was like in 1943.
Daily Life During the War
The book describes the effects of four years of rationing. This was when people had limited amounts of food and other goods. For example, Chas has a hole in his trousers because new clothes were hard to get. The story also mentions the Ministry of Food suggesting people try "Woolton pie." This was a meat-free pie that wasn't very popular.
Different People in Britain
The novel also shows how different groups of people came to Britain during the war. These included fishermen from Scandinavia and people from Malta. Chas meets a woman whose husband was lost in the Arctic convoys. These were groups of ships that carried supplies to Russia. This meeting helps Chas understand the human side of war. The book also hints at how tired people in Britain were of the war by this time.
Growing Up and Relationships
As the story unfolds, the author explores how society worked in Britain in 1943. Chas, whose father works with gas, starts a relationship with Sheila. Sheila's father is an important local judge.
First Love and Family Views
Chas and Sheila's relationship shows the hope and newness of first love. However, Sheila's parents do not approve of them being together. In the end, Chas's father helps to make things clear.
Learning About Society
Chas's family has many books, including some that help him understand society better. He becomes a keen reader of these books. This helps him learn more about the world around him. This reading also helps him develop his own ideas about politics and how society should work.
Characters and Their Journeys
The book is very realistic. It shows characters as they are, without being overly emotional.
Chas's Friendships
Chas forms friendships with some people from the Low Street area. This shows his growth and maturity. It also highlights his developing understanding of different people. The story suggests that we should not judge people too quickly. It encourages readers to look beyond first impressions.
