Don't Come Crying Home by William Fell-Holden, £9.99

THE blurb accompanying this true story about a boy growing up in Dr Barnardo's homes - including at Barrows Green near Kendal - describes it as a 'harrowing tale' and in some ways that's what it is.

In 1943, Eric (William's birth name) was put into care by his unmarried mother. He was just two-years-old.

Don't Come Crying Home story of how he grew up in a series of Barnardo's homes and the experiences, sometimes psychologically scarring, yet also uplifting - especially those describing his burgeoning love of the rich Westmorland countryside and exploration of nature.

Sometimes he was treated harshly by those in authority but even abusive staff were capable of handing out cruelty and care 'in equal measure'.

He also reveals how he was sexually abused by an older boy while at Barrows Green, which left emotional marks.

William says: "Recalling my childhood raised ambivalent feelings. At times I pictured an idealistic childhood with a past experience of a nostalgic time, yet a harrowing and painful one on full remembrance.

"It is a writing journey that took several years to complete; and it unexpectedly became cathartic process."

ALLAN TUNNINGLEY