The Charles Family's War - A gripping story of twin brothers during World War II

Author: Alan Fewster

Citation:  Fewster, Alan. The Charles Family’s War - A gripping story of twin brothers during World War II, Newport, NSW : Big Sky Publishing, 2015.

Summary:  This particular novel centres on the Charles brothers - Edwin Llewellyn (the author's uncle) and Terence John during the Second World War. Utilising a collection of letters and family photos as a foundation, Alan Fewster tells the story of two men who, despite sharing a familial connection, are radically different people. When the war begins, Edwin is able to enlist as a pilot with the Royal Australian Air Force. However, despite fervently wishing to, Terence's role in the militia prevents him from following in his brother's footsteps. After leaving that job, he serves as a navigator aboard a bomber in the European front. The book jumps between viewpoints, highlighting not just the experiences and relationships of the brothers but also the other members of the Charles family at home (specifically their sister and mother). It includes a diverse range of locations such as Britain, India and the United States. All of this combines to form what the book refers to as "a gripping story."

Time Period(s):  World War II.

External Links:

Publisher's page
http://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/Military/The-Charles-Family-s-War/1117/productview.aspx

The Australian's article on the book
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/world-war-ii-letters-by-charles-family-twins-inspire-alan-fewster/news-story/5e022833c19ee67dc4e61d9829505d06