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Tommy   By: (1860-1937)

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Tommy by Joseph Hocking is a thought-provoking and deeply moving tale that explores the themes of love, forgiveness, and redemption. Set in a small mining village in Cornwall, the story revolves around the life of the titular character, Tommy, a young boy who faces immense challenges and hardships from a very early age.

Hocking's writing style is both elegant and captivating, effortlessly drawing the reader into the harsh reality of Tommy's world. Through vivid descriptions and compelling narrative, the author paints a vivid picture of the mining community and its inhabitants, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the lives of these working-class families.

At the heart of the novel is Tommy's journey of self-discovery and personal growth. From a tender age, Tommy faces abandonment, poverty, and betrayal, leading him down a path of bitterness and resentment. However, as the story progresses, we witness Tommy's transformation as he encounters various individuals who offer him love, guidance, and a chance at redemption.

What makes this book truly exceptional is the nuanced portrayal of the characters. Each one is flawed and complex, evoking a mix of emotions from the reader. From Tommy's distant and troubled father to the kind-hearted Mrs. Penwarne who takes him in, the characters feel incredibly real and relatable.

Furthermore, Hocking does an outstanding job of exploring the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. The book delves into themes of forgiveness, showing how it can be both a transformative and healing force. It asks us to question our own capacity for forgiveness and the importance of compassion in a world that often seems harsh and unforgiving.

While the overall tone of the story is often somber, Hocking infuses moments of hope and tenderness, reminding us of the beauty that can be found even amidst adversity. These lighter moments provide a welcome respite from the darker aspects of the narrative, offering a sense of balance and depth to the story.

In conclusion, Tommy is a masterfully written novel that delves deep into the human condition, exploring universal themes with great sensitivity and depth. Joseph Hocking's rich storytelling and vivid characterization make this a truly unforgettable read. It is a book that will linger in your thoughts long after you turn the final page, leaving you with a profound sense of the power of love and forgiveness.

First Page:

TOMMY

BY

JOSEPH HOCKING

AUTHOR OF

"ALL FOR A SCRAP OF PAPER" "DEARER THAN LIFE" ETC.

HODDER AND STOUGHTON

LONDON NEW YORK TORONTO

MCMXVI

TWO GREAT WAR STORIES BY JOSEPH HOCKING

ALL FOR A SCRAP OF PAPER DEARER THAN LIFE

OTHER STORIES BY JOSEPH HOCKING

Facing Fearful Odds O'er Moor and Fen The Wilderness Rosaleen O'Hara The Soul of Dominie Wildthorne Follow the Gleam David Baring The Trampled Cross

NOTE

My only qualification for writing this simple story of "Tommy" is that I have tried to know him, and that I greatly admire him. I met him before he joined the army, when for more than six months I addressed recruiting meetings. I have also been with him in training camps, and spent many hours talking with him. It was during those hours that he opened his heart to me and showed me the kind of man he is. Since then I have visited him in France and Flanders. I have been with him down near La Bassée, and Neuve Chapelle. I have talked with him while great guns were booming as well as during his hours of well earned rest, when he was in a garrulous mood, and was glad to crack a joke "wi' a man wearin' a black coat." I have also been with him up at Ypres, when the shells were shrieking over our heads, and the "pep, pep, pep" of machine guns heralded the messengers of death... Continue reading book >>




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