Name: Once in a House on Fire
ISBN: 9780330450089

Andrea Ashworth

'One of the most extraordinary stories you will ever read of the triumph of the human spirit' Daily MailSet in 1970s Manchester, Once in a House on Fire tells the true story of three sisters and their mother, a close-knit and loving family forced to battle with poverty, abuse and the effects of depression. Beautifully written and deeply inspiring, with a new afterword by Andrea Ashworth, it is a book that will stay with its readers for ever.

Once in a House on Fire

Set in 1970s Manchester, ONCE IN A HOUSE ON FIRE tells the harrowing true story of three sisters and their mother, from the point of view of the eldest sister Andrea. They are a close-knit, loving family but are forced to battle with poverty, depression, and terrifying abuse at the hands of two stepfathers. Andrea, a sensitive and highly observant child, witnesses and suffers unbearable cruelty yet refuses to give into despair. Ultimately this is an empowering account of survival and hope, as Andrea forges a future beyond the violent world of home.

Rebecca Grandison 

This was a harrowing read and with every page you can't believe the lives children have to endure. It's very well written though . Don't read it if you're feeling down as it won't help!

Pam Sartain

This was an amazing, horribly truthful, and heartbreaking read. It felt as though you were there, with Andrea Ashworth and her sisters willing and cheering her on, and hoping that they all came through it.

I really enjoyed Ashworth's use of language - it feels very literary and poetic at the same time, and I really look forward to any more books from her!

Once in a House on Fire

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