The Sunshine of your Smile (Molly and Nellie series, #6) : Book Review

"The Sunshine of Your Smile" by Joan Jonker is a heartwarming and uplifting tale that takes place in Liverpool during World War II. Set against the backdrop of the war, the story follows the life of Pearl Nolan, a compassionate and determined barmaid who also takes care of her sick father. Despite the challenges and hardships caused by the war, Pearl remains resilient and finds comfort in the love and support of her friends.

The story takes an unexpected turn when Pearl meets Chuck, an American soldier stationed nearby. Their budding romance brings a glimmer of hope and happiness into Pearl's life, providing a much-needed escape from the harsh realities of war. However, their relationship is tested when Chuck is reassigned to a different location, forcing them to navigate the challenges of a long-distance relationship and an uncertain future.

Joan Jonker skillfully captures the spirit of wartime Liverpool, painting a vivid picture of a community united in the face of adversity. Through her engaging writing style, readers are able to easily connect with the characters and become emotionally invested in their journeys. Pearl Nolan, in particular, stands out as a compelling protagonist, as her strength and resilience serve as an inspiration.

"The Sunshine of Your Smile" not only explores the blossoming romance between Pearl and Chuck, but also delves into deeper themes such as the importance of family bonds, friendship, and the power of community. The supporting characters in the novel are well-developed and add depth to the story, highlighting the significance of relationships during challenging times.

Overall, Joan Jonker crafts a beautifully written novel that is sure to leave readers with a smile on their faces and a renewed appreciation for the indomitable human spirit. Through Pearl's story, readers are reminded of the power of love, friendship, and resilience, even in the most difficult of times. "The Sunshine of Your Smile" is a testament to the human capacity for strength and hope, making it a truly heartwarming and uplifting read.

What are readers saying?

"The Sunshine of your Smile" by Joan Jonker has garnered a mix of reviews from readers, showcasing a range of opinions on the book. One recurring theme among these reviews is the admiration for Jonker's descriptive writing style and her skill in bringing the characters to life. Many readers commend Jonker's ability to capture the essence of Liverpool during the mid-20th century, evoking a nostalgic atmosphere that resonated with them. The book is often described as heartwarming and enjoyable to read, with numerous reviewers expressing their appreciation for the strong sense of community portrayed in the story.

However, some readers have voiced their concerns regarding the plot, finding it predictable and lacking in depth. They perceive the storyline as formulaic, with elements of melodrama that failed to resonate with them. Additionally, a few reviewers noted the abundance of characters, which made it challenging to keep track of everyone and their individual storylines. Some readers also felt that the pacing of the book was uneven, with certain sections dragging on while others felt rushed.

Another point raised in several reviews is the use of heavy dialect and colloquial language. While this aspect added authenticity to the story and reflected the characters' backgrounds, it presented difficulties for readers who were unfamiliar with the dialect or struggled to understand it. Consequently, some reviewers found themselves needing to reread passages in order to fully grasp their meaning.

Despite these criticisms, many readers found "The Sunshine of your Smile" to be a delightful and captivating novel, highlighting Jonker's talent for portraying everyday life and the triumphs and struggles of ordinary people. The book offers readers a glimpse into a bygone era and explores themes of family, love, and community, resonating with those who enjoy heartwarming and nostalgic stories. However, readers seeking a more intricate and unpredictable plot may find this book less satisfying. Overall, Jonker's novel possesses its own charismatic allure and is likely to appeal to those seeking a light and comforting read.