book review nineteen steps

Nineteen Steps

Millie bobby brown , kathleen mcgurl.

320 pages, ebook

First published September 12, 2023

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Millie Bobby Brown

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NINETEEN STEPS

by Millie Bobby Brown with Kathleen McGurl ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 3, 2023

Poorly drawn characters and clichés abound in this familiar story of WWII.

A tale of love, war, and tragedy in 1940s London.

Brown’s debut is touted as being inspired by events that affected her own family, but just about anyone who has seen a movie about World War II could probably have written a similar novel; the story and tropes are all too familiar. Set in the Bethnal Green neighborhood of London, the story follows young Nellie Morris, who works for the mayor’s office. Nellie, who lives with her parents, brother George, and adored little sister Flo, navigates wartime scarcities and endures the frequent air raids with as much grace as she can muster with German bombers screaming overhead. She does have fun hanging out with her childhood friends Babs and Billy, the latter of whom is not-so-secretly in love with her. But when the sirens howl, laughter is forgotten as the whole neighborhood flees to the Underground station to wait out the bombs. The tedium and terror are interrupted when Nellie meets Ray Fleming, a handsome American airman, who tells her tales of his native Michigan, and suddenly her hopes and dreams for the future blossom. But a shocking tragedy upends their romance, and Nellie must confront hard questions of civil and personal responsibility. Brown is best known for playing the telekinetic Eleven on Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things , and her fans are likely to reach with excitement and hopeful generosity for this coming-of-age story. But it is inexpertly written, its major tragic scene confusing and poorly described, and the characters never transcend the paper-thin clichés with which they were constructed (plucky young woman; handsome Yank; asthmatic, nobly suffering friend). Though it seems likely to be a hit, the novel lacks the depth to elicit real emotion.

Pub Date: Oct. 3, 2023

ISBN: 9780063335776

Page Count: 320

Publisher: Morrow/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: Aug. 31, 2023

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2023

HISTORICAL FICTION | FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | GENERAL FICTION

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Awards & Accolades

Our Verdict

New York Times Bestseller

by Kristin Hannah ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 6, 2024

A dramatic, vividly detailed reconstruction of a little-known aspect of the Vietnam War.

A young woman’s experience as a nurse in Vietnam casts a deep shadow over her life.

When we learn that the farewell party in the opening scene is for Frances “Frankie” McGrath’s older brother—“a golden boy, a wild child who could make the hardest heart soften”—who is leaving to serve in Vietnam in 1966, we feel pretty certain that poor Finley McGrath is marked for death. Still, it’s a surprise when the fateful doorbell rings less than 20 pages later. His death inspires his sister to enlist as an Army nurse, and this turn of events is just the beginning of a roller coaster of a plot that’s impressive and engrossing if at times a bit formulaic. Hannah renders the experiences of the young women who served in Vietnam in all-encompassing detail. The first half of the book, set in gore-drenched hospital wards, mildewed dorm rooms, and boozy officers’ clubs, is an exciting read, tracking the transformation of virginal, uptight Frankie into a crack surgical nurse and woman of the world. Her tensely platonic romance with a married surgeon ends when his broken, unbreathing body is airlifted out by helicopter; she throws her pent-up passion into a wild affair with a soldier who happens to be her dead brother’s best friend. In the second part of the book, after the war, Frankie seems to experience every possible bad break. A drawback of the story is that none of the secondary characters in her life are fully three-dimensional: Her dismissive, chauvinistic father and tight-lipped, pill-popping mother, her fellow nurses, and her various love interests are more plot devices than people. You’ll wish you could have gone to Vegas and placed a bet on the ending—while it’s against all the odds, you’ll see it coming from a mile away.

Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2024

ISBN: 9781250178633

Page Count: 480

Publisher: St. Martin's

Review Posted Online: Nov. 4, 2023

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2023

FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | GENERAL FICTION | HISTORICAL FICTION

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by Kristin Hannah

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SEEN & HEARD

by Elin Hilderbrand ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 11, 2024

Though Hilderbrand threatens to kill all our darlings with this last laugh, her acknowledgments say it’s just “for now.”

A stranger comes to town, and a beloved storyteller plays this creative-writing standby for all it’s worth.

Hilderbrand fans, a vast and devoted legion, will remember Blond Sharon, the notorious island gossip. In what is purportedly the last of the Nantucket novels, Blond Sharon decides to pursue her lifelong dream of fiction writing. In the collective opinion of the island—aka the “cobblestone telegraph”—she’s qualified. “Well, we think, she’s certainly demonstrated her keen interest in other people’s stories, the seedier and more salacious, the better.” Blond Sharon’s first assignment in her online creative writing class is to create a two-person character study, and Hilderbrand has her write up the two who arrive on the ferry in an opening scene of the book, using the same descriptors Hilderbrand has. Amusingly, the class is totally unimpressed. “‘I found it predictable,’ Willow said. ‘Like maybe Sharon used ChatGPT with the prompt “Write a character study about two women getting off the ferry, one prep and one punk.”’” Blond Sharon abandons these characters, but Hilderbrand thankfully does not. They are Kacy Kapenash, daughter of retiring police chief Ed Kapenash (the other swan song referred to by the title), and her new friend Coco Coyle, who has given up her bartending job in the Virgin Islands to become a “personal concierge” for the other strangers-who-have-come-to-town. These are the Richardsons, Bull and Leslee, a wild and wealthy couple who have purchased a $22 million beachfront property and plan to take Nantucket by storm. As the book opens, their house has burned down during an end-of-summer party on their yacht, and Coco is missing, feared both responsible for the fire and dead. Though it’s the last weekend of his tenure, Chief Ed refuses to let the incoming chief, Zara Washington, take this one over. The investigation goes forward in parallel with a review of the summer’s intrigues, love affairs, and festivities. Whatever else you can say about Leslee Richardson, she knows how to throw a party, and Hilderbrand is just the writer to design her invitations, menus, themes, playlists, and outfits. And that hot tub!

Pub Date: June 11, 2024

ISBN: 9780316258876

Page Count: 384

Publisher: Little, Brown

Review Posted Online: March 9, 2024

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 2024

FAMILY LIFE & FRIENDSHIP | GENERAL FICTION

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by Elin Hilderbrand

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Nineteen Steps

Written by Kathleen McGurl Millie Bobby Brown Review by Athena Heavey

The novel is inspired by the experiences of Brown’s grandmother, who lived in London during the Second World War and survived the Bethnal Green tube disaster in 1943. The incident was one of the worst civilian disasters of the war, in which 173 lives were lost during an air raid when shelterers fell on top of one another at the bottom of the steps in Bethnal Green station, leading to fatal crush injuries and asphyxiation. The disaster serves as the centre point of the novel, with the pages before and after detailing the life of the protagonist, eighteen-year-old Nellie Morris, in the years leading up to and following the tragedy.

At the start of the story, Nellie is content working as an assistant to the Mayoress and spending her free time with her little sister Flo or her best friend Babs… as well as avoiding the advances of her next-door-neighbour, Billy. But when a chance encounter sees her running straight into the arms of the handsome American airman, Ray Fleming, Nellie starts to question whether she might be ready for love after all. And when Nellie suffers a huge personal loss, maybe love is the only thing that can help her to survive?

The book delivers a bittersweet tale that explores a snapshot of both the unimaginable joys and devastating heartbreaks experienced during the Second World War. The character of Nellie serves as an excellent centre to the story: a family-oriented young woman who is old enough to lament the current bleak state of the world but still holds on to the youthful ideal of a more hopeful tomorrow. While the plot is rather formulaic and its delivery is much more simplistic than is usual for a work of adult fiction, the authors nevertheless succeed in presenting their readers with a moving account of love, loss, and the importance of cherishing your loved ones in war-torn London. An emotional read that will leave readers heartbroken on one page and hopeful on the next.

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The Devastating True Story Behind ‘Nineteen Steps’

Taking inspiration from her grandmother’s stories from World War II, Millie Bobby Brown’s new book shines a light on deep issues within the British government.

Nineteen Steps centers on Nellie Morris, an 18-year-old girl living with her parents and siblings in East London during the war. Nellie is as upbeat as one could be during a time of unending tragedy. She adores her younger siblings and her best friend, who lives next door, and she dreams of traveling the world. During the day, Nellie works for the local mayor’s office, but she spends most nights hiding out in the bomb shelter in the then-unfinished Bethnal Green tube station as bombs rattle the city. The air raids are constant, and the people of the neighborhood have become used to rushing underground every time they hear that familiar siren.

Nineteen Steps

The monotony of Nellie’s life is interrupted when she meets an American soldier stationed nearby. They begin a courtship, and she finds solace in small moments like going to the cinema and getting dressed up for a dance. But one night, a totally avoidable tragedy impacts Nellie’s life, as well as the entire community.

Brown drew on her family’s actual experiences during World War II when writing the novel, although it is a work of fiction, and Nellie is an imagined character. “Writing Nineteen Steps has been a really special project for me,” Brown confirmed on Instagram when she first announced the book. “The story is inspired by true events and my own family history.”

To write the book, Brown and McGurl looked to real-world sources to ensure accuracy. “I was sent a lot of research that had already been pulled together by Millie and her family, and plenty of ideas, and we had a couple of Zoom calls,” McGurl explained . “And then I knuckled down and wrote the first draft, while Millie continued sending more ideas via WhatsApp. The book went through several drafts since then as we refined the story.”

The steps referenced in the novel’s title are those that lead into the Bethnal Green underground station, which opened in 1946 after the end of the war. At the beginning of the Blitz, the bombing of London by the German military, in 1940, the government requisitioned the nearly completed station to be used as an overnight shelter during the ongoing air raids. It kept thousands of people safe from the German bombing for several years, and it could hold up to 10,000 people. The station was vast, with 5,000 bunks, a theater and library, a doctor’s quarters, a makeshift café, and additional space in the tunnels. Most locals preferred it to other nearby shelters because there was such a sense of community spirit.

On the evening of March 3, 1943, there was word that an air raid might be imminent. The sirens blared, and people began to file into the station as usual. Three double-decker London city buses, loaded with passengers from nearby areas, rerouted when the sirens went off and inadvertently arrived at once. As people entered, a woman carrying a child tripped on the darkened staircase, causing those behind them to fall as well. It created a domino effect. Nearly 300 people became trapped in the pileup, with layers of bodies wedged into the stairway and landing. No one could move, and it took several hours for the authorities to clear everyone out. In total, 173 people died in the crush, 62 of whom were children. Ninety more were injured.

Brown’s grandmother, Ruth, lived locally and watched as her best friend, Babs, endured the pain of losing her entire family .

Ray Letchmere was 9 years old when he lost his father and grandparents in the crush. Sharing his memories of that tragic time with My London in 2022, Letchmere found that the Bethnal Green community ties ran deep, and in the aftermath of this loss, the “keep calm and carry on” spirit was alive and well.

“Everybody was in the same boat,” Letchmere told My London . “You didn’t really think about it; each day was another day. You just had to live for that day and through to tomorrow.”

Beyond sharing the emotional heft of the tube disaster in her novel, Brown said she hoped to keep her grandmother’s stories alive in general. Many elements of the book, including places the actress went with her grandmother, appear in the novel.

“I had trouble sleeping when I was younger,” Brown said in the interview. “My nan would stay up with me until 4 or 5 a.m., tickling my arm and telling me what her childhood was like, and those stories impacted me so much. We’d go walking through Victoria Park, we’d visit the memorial [for the tube tragedy], and walk down Roman Road, getting lunch, so these places are part of my childhood too. When she got diagnosed with dementia, I was worried that we’d lose these stories. I wanted to capture the strength of how my nan and her community got through those times. These stories will remain so important and personal to me. I’m so glad I was able to translate them onto paper.”

In the novel, Nellie’s job as the mayor’s assistant allows her to see how much the government failed the people of Bethnal Green as it covered up the disaster. In reality, reports of the incident and mass deaths were censored because the British government didn’t want its enemies to know the air raid had caused a fatal public panic. Years after, it was revealed that the local council in Bethnal Green had asked permission to alter the entrance and put in a central handrail several times. Each time, they were denied by the British government, which put the blame on the council following the mass deaths.

Decades later, the tragedy was finally acknowledged , and in 2013, on the 70th anniversary, a memorial service was held for the victims at St John on Bethnal Green church. One of the most tragic realizations was that the sirens that led to the crush were a test — there was no actual threat of an air raid that night. The incident is now recognized as the worst civilian disaster during World War II, according to the BBC .

Today, the Stairway to Heaven memorial, a large-scale sculpture outside the working Bethnal Green tube station, pays tribute to the victims.

In early 2023, the locals held an 80th anniversary memorial service. Many of the survivors have told their stories on the news, but Brown’s book offers a different way of looking back at the historic event. Through Nellie, we see what it was like for East Enders during the war and how the tragedy shaped the community. The actress recently told Women’s Wear Daily that while she prefers to keep her life private, Nineteen Steps feels like an opportunity to connect over something significant with her fans. The history Brown shares in her novel, with the help of McGurl, gives readers a lens into the stories her grandmother would tell, providing us with a small slice of a Millie Bobby Brown we rarely get to see.

Emily Zemler is a freelance writer and journalist based in London. She regularly contributes to the Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone, PureWow, and TripSavvy , and is the author of two books. Follow her on Twitter @emilyzemler .

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Nineteen Steps: The Sunday Times bestselling debut novel inspired by the true events of her family’s history, from global star Millie Bobby Brown Hardcover – 12 Sept. 2023

The sunday times bestselling debut novel from global star millie bobby brown, love blooms in the darkest days….

London, 1942.

Despite the raging war, spirited 18-year-old Nellie Morris lives a quiet life in the tight-knit East End community of Bethnal Green. Her family and friends all tease that she will marry air raid warden Billy, the boy next door who’s always been sweet on her.

The arrival of Ray, a handsome American airman stationed nearby, causes Nellie to question everything she thought she knew about her future.

Nellie’s new-found happiness is short-lived when a tragic accident occurs during an air raid. Even the closest family can’t escape the devastation of war, and as the secrets and truth about that fateful night become clear, they threaten to tear Nellie – and those dearest to her – apart.

’There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered. . .You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.’ New York Times

Millie Bobby Brown's book 'Nineteen Steps' was a No.2 Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2023-09-11.

• Print length 384 pages
• Language English
• Publisher HQ
• Publication date 12 Sept. 2023
• Dimensions 15.9 x 3.6 x 24 cm
• ISBN-10 0008530262
• ISBN-13 978-0008530266
• See all details

From the Publisher

Product description

Inspired by the true events of her family history, Millie Bobby Brown’s dazzling debut novel is a moving tale of longing, loss and secrets, and the lengths that we will go to fight for love.

’There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered…You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.’ New York Times

‘This novel will make you swoon, laugh, and even cry, because some parts are truly devastating, especially when you remember it's based on true events…It’s thought-provoking and easy to read – one to pop on your cosy autumn TBR pile.’ Daily Mirror

‘Millie Bobby Brown’s debut novel beautifully portrays her grandmother’s experience…[and] shrewdly portrays the difficult history of a tragedy that is often overlooked.’ The i Paper

‘A dazzling debut.’ Woman’s Own

‘A brilliant debut novel inspired by the true events of Millie Bobby Brown’s family history.’ Closer

‘Shines a brilliant light on a dark moment in history. Full of heartbreak and hope, with characters you'll root hard for and will stay in your heart for a long time to come.’ Kristin Harmel

‘A remarkable debut. Her tale of first love, poignant regrets, and the search for the truth makes for a spellbinding read. Enthralling.’ Fiona Davis

‘A sweet, sensitive coming-of-age story. Nineteen Steps is a lovely read for fans everywhere.’ Kate Quinn

Book Description

The Sunday Times bestselling debut novel inspired by the true events of her family’s history, from global star Millie Bobby Brown

About the Author

Millie Bobby Brown is an actress and producer best known for playing Eleven in the Netflix hit series Stranger Things .

On the big screen, Brown has starred in Godzilla: King of the Monsters and its sequel Godzilla vs. Kong . She also starred in and produced the popular Netflix mystery film franchise Enola Holmes and its 2022 sequel Enola Holmes 2 .

In 2019, Brown launched her own vegan and cruelty free makeup and skincare line, florence by mills. The brand received the “Launch of the Year” honour at Women’s Wear Daily’s Beauty Inc Awards.

In November 2018, UNICEF named Brown the organization’s newest Goodwill Ambassador. Earlier that year, Brown was also named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ HQ (12 Sept. 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 384 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0008530262
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0008530266
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.9 x 3.6 x 24 cm
• 404 in 20th Century Historical Romance (Books)
• 688 in War Story Fiction
• 808 in Military Romance (Books)

About the author

Millie bobby brown.

Millie Bobby Brown is a British Emmy Award–winning actress. She has been featured in the TIME 100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Nineteen Steps is her first book.

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Customers find the story lovely, heartwarming, and emotional. They also appreciate the great detail and realistic view of everyday life. Readers also mention that the characters are brought to life well.

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Customers find the story lovely, with plot twists and a hard to predict ending. They also mention that the book keeps them interested throughout.

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Customers find the writing style well-written, heartwarming, and gentle. They also say the book is very emotional at times and they feel good and sad emotions.

" Well written & the story draws you in, you will not want to put it down." Read more

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"...reader about a tragic event that happened during the war in a really thoughtful way , you really care for the characters and the heartbreak they feel..." Read more

Customers find the actress very talented and bring the characters to life. They also say the story gives a realistic view of everyday life.

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Customers find the book has great detail, interesting, and depicts the fortitude of the East End during WW2.

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Nineteen Steps: A Novel Paperback – Deckle Edge, Sept. 12 2023

Purchase options and add-ons.

The New York Times bestseller from iconic Emmy-nominated actress and producer MILLIE BOBBY BROWN: Nineteen Steps

"My inner history-loving teenage geek clapped her hands in ecstasy at the thought of a historical novel penned by Enola Holmes, and she wasn't disappointed!” — Kate Quinn

Love blooms in the darkest days…

It’s 1942, and air raid sirens continue to wail around London. Eighteen-year-old Nellie Morris counts every day lucky that she emerges from the underground shelters unharmed, her loving family still surrounding her.

After a chance encounter with Ray, an American airman stationed nearby, she becomes enchanted with the idea of a broader world. Just as she begins to embrace an exciting new life with Ray, a terrible incident occurs during an air raid one evening, tearing her world apart. But when it seems all hope is lost, Nellie finds that, against all odds, love and happiness can triumph.

Nineteen Steps is a deeply affecting, mesmerizing page-turner inspired by the author’s family history. An epic story of longing, loss, and secrets, Millie Bobby Brown’s propulsive debut introduces an unforgettable, brave young woman and boldly portrays the strength in the power of love.

“Inspired by my Nanny Ruth, this book is very personal and close to my heart. I grew up listening to stories about her time living through the war. I’m honored to keep her story alive.” — Millie Bobby Brown

• Print length 320 pages
• Language English
• Publisher William Morrow Paperbacks
• Publication date Sept. 12 2023
• Dimensions 15.24 x 1.83 x 22.86 cm
• ISBN-10 0063347008
• ISBN-13 978-0063347007
• See all details

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“Valuable… There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered… You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.”                                                 — New York Times Book Review

“The book is really about making your way when consumed by grief. And in that aspect it succeeds, painting a brave portrait of Nellie and her family and friends as they struggle to survive and find happiness in a world gone mad… [Brown's] late, beloved grandmother would assuredly be proud of this first effort.” — Associated Press

“ Millie Bobby Brown may be best known for taking down Demogorgons in  Stranger Things  and solving impossible cases as Enola Holmes, but the actress establishes herself as an equally powerful writer with her poignant debut novel  Nineteen Steps . Inspired by true events from her family history…Brown refuses to shy away from the realities of war in her coming-of-age story, exploring love, loss, and courage in a way that is both bold and intensely moving.” — Entertainment Weekly

“[An] emotionally layered debut… Brown’s narrative, which is based on real events, effectively balances the danger and deprivations of war in a city under siege with the joys of family, friends, and romance. This highly charged historical romance offers intimate insight into WWII London and the challenges of overcoming loss.” — Publishers Weekly

“My inner history-loving teenage geek clapped her hands in ecstasy at the thought of a historical novel penned by Enola Holmes, and she wasn't disappointed! Dreamer Nellie Morris spends her days typing and her nights sheltering from the German bombers screaming overhead, imagining a bigger world beyond her East End London roots—and a burgeoning romance with an American airman offers hope beyond the end of the war. But one terrible night at the nearby air raid shelter tears Nellie's world apart and she must find the courage to make a new life from the wreckage. Millie Bobby Brown pens a sweet, sensitive coming-of-age story drawn from her own family history —Nineteen Steps is a lovely read for fans everywhere.” — Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye

“In this remarkable debut, Brown brings to life an unfamiliar—and shocking—tragedy that took place during World War II in London’s East End. Supported by a rich cast of characters, her tale of first love, poignant regrets, and the search for truth makes for a spellbinding read. Enthralling.”  — Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Spectacular

“Centered around a real-life historical event that counts as the UK’s largest loss of civilian life during the Second World War, Nineteen Steps shines a brilliant light on a dark moment in history. Actress and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Millie Bobby Brown soars in her debut novel, bringing to life the joy and heartache of wartime England, as well as the visceral terror that came with frequent German bombings over London. Full of heartbreak and hope, and overflowing with vibrant characters you’ll root hard for, Nineteen Steps will plunge you into the 1940s East End and will stay in your heart for a long time to come.”  — Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Daughter

“Heartfelt and warm, with quietly heroic characters that embody the innocence of first love and wartime patriotism, Brown’s debut is sure to be popular among readers who enjoy novels that bring lesser-known notable events from the past to life.” — Booklist

About the Author

Millie Bobby Brown  is a British Emmy Award–nominated actress. She has been featured in the  TIME  100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.  Nineteen Steps  is her first book. 

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ William Morrow Paperbacks (Sept. 12 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0063347008
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0063347007
• Item weight ‏ : ‎ 312 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.24 x 1.83 x 22.86 cm
• #276 in Military Historical Fiction
• #302 in 20th Century Historical Romance (Books)
• #712 in War Fiction (Books)

About the author

Millie bobby brown.

Millie Bobby Brown is a British Emmy Award–winning actress. She has been featured in the TIME 100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Nineteen Steps is her first book.

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I Read Millie Bobby Brown's Book Nineteen Steps And I Have Some Thoughts

I want to see what she creates next.

Nineteen Steps by Millie Bobby Brown marked the debut novel of the Stranger Things actress. I read this book out of curiosity because I didn’t know much about it. I prefer going into books with little background and story knowledge.

I didn’t even know the plot of Nineteen Steps by Millie Bobby Brown before reading it. I knew, however, that Brown’s grandmother-inspired the novel. Reading the book without knowing much about it helped make the experience of reading it more enjoyable and surprising. However, I encourage others to know some things about a book before reading it. So let me tell you about Nineteen Steps.  

Nineteen Steps Takes Place During World War II 

Nineteen Steps falls into the historical fiction category. It takes place during World War II and starts in 1942. The events of the piece occur over several years. The book portrays the war in a realistic manner but from the point of view of someone not in combat. The main protagonist, Nellie Morris, and her community depict what’s happening in London during it. The novel showcases the war from the civilian perspective. 

Like many award-winning war movies , the presence of the war is very prominent. Just because the characters aren’t shown on the battlefield doesn’t mean that their lives aren’t altered and suspended because of World War II. Many WWII novels and movies are told from the point of view of a soldier, so it’s refreshing and interesting to read stories about those not directly fighting in the war but still suffering from it. 

It Was Inspired by Millie Bobby Brown’s Grandmother’s Life And Experience 

The opening dedication of Nineteen Steps mentions that the book is for those who lost their lives in the tragedy mentioned in the book and for Brown’s Nanny Ruth “who told me this story.” In an interview with TODAY , Brown shared that every night as a young child her grandmother told her stories about her life during World War II. She took these stories and fictionalized them for Nineteen Steps . 

Brown specifically focused on the Bethnal Green Tube Disaster of 1943. According to Historic UK , 173 people were killed that day, 62 were children and 60 were injured. The incident happened when a noise caused the air-raid warning to sound and people to start to panic and take cover in the Bethnal Green Tube station, which served as an air raid shelter.

At the time, mystery surrounded what happened, but Nineteen Steps provided some answers. According to the New York Times , the Bethnal Green Tube Disaster was the biggest civilian tragedy during the war. Brown’s grandmother experienced the incident and survived it. The book is titled Nineteen Steps because that’s how many steps it took to get into the tube station. 

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Nineteen Steps Has A Love Triangle  

The Bethnal Green Tube Disaster plays a major role in the second half of Nineteen Steps , but the first half focuses on establishing Nellie’s life. Part of that involves a love triangle between an American US airman named Ray and her childhood best friend Billy. Billy has been in love with Nellie all his life, but never told her how he felt. Ray enters the picture and immediately enthralls her. Eventually, Nellie must pick between the men. 

Nellie falls deeply in love with Ray, but it’s unclear if it’s going to be a friends-to-lovers romance book, or if Ray and Nellie are meant to have a happily ever after. The end game for the romance keeps you guessing until near the latter half of the book. Nellie is still a teen when she falls for Ray and at one point, they’re planning to get married. People marrying young was more of a norm in the 1940s but the Stranger Things star could have pulled from her own love life when creating Nellie’s love story. 

The Family And Friends Aspects of The Book Are Critical To The Story 

In her TODAY interview, Brown talked about how her grandmother’s life had a lot of tragedy during World War II but it also had some light in it. 

Of course there is a lot of tragedy within the stories that she was telling me, but there is also a lot of humor and a lot of love, community and friendship, and I felt like this could be something really important for people to know about.

The community, friends, and family aspects of the story are very ingrained in Nineteen Steps . The Bethnal Green community plays a huge part in Nellie’s identity. She is who she is because of her friends and family. That’s why you feel the weight of the losses. Her friends and family are also a driving force to get answers for the tragedy. 

The community and family parts are some of the best moments of the novel. I almost wish we got more family and community scenes in Nineteen Steps because the citizens and Nellie’s family really helped shape the story and give it foundation and sentimentality. 

It Has Had Some Controversy  

Millie Bobby Brown collaborated with Kathleen McGurl to write Nineteen Steps . Brown officially thanked her ghostwriter on her Instagram . This sparked some backlash because many believed McGurl should receive the credit for writing the book. I own a copy of the UK edition of Nineteen Steps and inside it, it says written by Brown with McGurl. As the Guardian points out, many celebrities have ghostwriters.

Most famous people, however, are not as transparent as Brown about using them. Many memoirs, cookbooks, novels, and such use the famous name to sell copies but the actual writing is done by a ghostwriter. Generally I assume most celebrity books are not written by the celebrities themselves. Therefore, I think it’s commendable that Brown acknowledged that she didn’t write her book and publicly thanked her ghostwriter. 

This allows McGurl more exposure and may encourage more people to read her books that are penned under her name.  I also understand the backlash because it may seem misleading and unfair to some people. The important thing for me, and why I think of Nineteen Steps  as Brown’s book even if she didn’t write it, is because it is inspired by her grandmother’s life and experience. The story exists because of Brown's connection with her grandmother. 

Fans Of Historical Romances May Enjoy This Book 

While reading this book, I thought a lot about the movie Brooklyn . They are very different stories but somehow felt similar. Fans of historical romances will probably enjoy this story. I could associate it with several well-known historical romance movies. 

I found the romance of Ray and Nellie all right, but I wouldn’t call them an epic love story. If they ever make Nineteen Steps into a movie, I don’t think it will be one of the greatest romance movies of all time , but I think it will be an enjoyable romance drama. I don’t read a lot of historical fiction, especially not historical romances, but Nineteen Steps definitely made me want to read more in the genre. I enjoyed that everything in it felt heightened and more dire because of the setting and time. 

It’s A Quick Read 

If you’re curious about Nineteen Steps but don’t want to devote too much time to reading it, well, I have news: It’s a pretty quick read. It only took me a couple of hours for two days to read. I read at an average speed, so I think anyone can read it fairly quickly. Additionally, Millie Bobby Brown voices the audiobook, if you want to consume the book in that way.

It’s always interesting to hear a celebrity author read their own books to hear them bring their vision of their characters to life. 

Millie Bobby Brown’s upcoming projects include the movies Damsel and The Electric State with Chris Pratt. Hopefully, future projects include another book. Overall, I enjoyed Nineteen Steps and would read the Stranger Things star next creation.  

Spent most of my life in various parts of Illinois, including attending college in Evanston. I have been a life long lover of pop culture, especially television, turned that passion into writing about all things entertainment related. When I'm not writing about pop culture, I can be found channeling Gordon Ramsay by kicking people out the kitchen.

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Nineteen Steps: A Novel Hardcover – Import, 12 September 2023

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The New York Times bestseller from iconic Emmy-nominated actress and producer MILLIE BOBBY BROWN: Nineteen Steps

"My inner history-loving teenage geek clapped her hands in ecstasy at the thought of a historical novel penned by Enola Holmes, and she wasn't disappointed!” — Kate Quinn

Love blooms in the darkest days…

It’s 1942, and air raid sirens continue to wail around London. Eighteen-year-old Nellie Morris counts every day lucky that she emerges from the underground shelters unharmed, her loving family still surrounding her.

After a chance encounter with Ray, an American airman stationed nearby, she becomes enchanted with the idea of a broader world. Just as she begins to embrace an exciting new life with Ray, a terrible incident occurs during an air raid one evening, tearing her world apart. But when it seems all hope is lost, Nellie finds that, against all odds, love and happiness can triumph.

Nineteen Steps is a deeply affecting, mesmerizing page-turner inspired by the author’s family history. An epic story of longing, loss, and secrets, Millie Bobby Brown’s propulsive debut introduces an unforgettable, brave young woman and boldly portrays the strength in the power of love.

“Inspired by my Nanny Ruth, this book is very personal and close to my heart. I grew up listening to stories about her time living through the war. I’m honored to keep her story alive.” — Millie Bobby Brown

• Print length 320 pages
• Language English
• Publisher William Morrow
• Publication date 12 September 2023
• Dimensions 15.24 x 2.46 x 22.86 cm
• ISBN-10 0063335778
• ISBN-13 978-0063335776
• See all details

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“Valuable… There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered… You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.”                                                 — New York Times Book Review

“The book is really about making your way when consumed by grief. And in that aspect it succeeds, painting a brave portrait of Nellie and her family and friends as they struggle to survive and find happiness in a world gone mad… [Brown's] late, beloved grandmother would assuredly be proud of this first effort.” — Associated Press

“ Millie Bobby Brown may be best known for taking down Demogorgons in  Stranger Things  and solving impossible cases as Enola Holmes, but the actress establishes herself as an equally powerful writer with her poignant debut novel  Nineteen Steps . Inspired by true events from her family history…Brown refuses to shy away from the realities of war in her coming-of-age story, exploring love, loss, and courage in a way that is both bold and intensely moving.” — Entertainment Weekly

“[An] emotionally layered debut… Brown’s narrative, which is based on real events, effectively balances the danger and deprivations of war in a city under siege with the joys of family, friends, and romance. This highly charged historical romance offers intimate insight into WWII London and the challenges of overcoming loss.” — Publishers Weekly

“My inner history-loving teenage geek clapped her hands in ecstasy at the thought of a historical novel penned by Enola Holmes, and she wasn't disappointed! Dreamer Nellie Morris spends her days typing and her nights sheltering from the German bombers screaming overhead, imagining a bigger world beyond her East End London roots—and a burgeoning romance with an American airman offers hope beyond the end of the war. But one terrible night at the nearby air raid shelter tears Nellie's world apart and she must find the courage to make a new life from the wreckage. Millie Bobby Brown pens a sweet, sensitive coming-of-age story drawn from her own family history —Nineteen Steps is a lovely read for fans everywhere.” — Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye

“In this remarkable debut, Brown brings to life an unfamiliar—and shocking—tragedy that took place during World War II in London’s East End. Supported by a rich cast of characters, her tale of first love, poignant regrets, and the search for truth makes for a spellbinding read. Enthralling.”  — Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Spectacular

“Centered around a real-life historical event that counts as the UK’s largest loss of civilian life during the Second World War, Nineteen Steps shines a brilliant light on a dark moment in history. Actress and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Millie Bobby Brown soars in her debut novel, bringing to life the joy and heartache of wartime England, as well as the visceral terror that came with frequent German bombings over London. Full of heartbreak and hope, and overflowing with vibrant characters you’ll root hard for, Nineteen Steps will plunge you into the 1940s East End and will stay in your heart for a long time to come.”  — Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Daughter

“Heartfelt and warm, with quietly heroic characters that embody the innocence of first love and wartime patriotism, Brown’s debut is sure to be popular among readers who enjoy novels that bring lesser-known notable events from the past to life.” — Booklist

About the Author

Millie Bobby Brown  is a British Emmy Award–nominated actress. She has been featured in the  TIME  100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.  Nineteen Steps  is her first book. 

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ William Morrow (12 September 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0063335778
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0063335776
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 426 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.24 x 2.46 x 22.86 cm
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ USA
• #3,402 in 20th Century Historical Romance (Books)
• #50,299 in Action & Adventure (Books)
• #72,820 in Historical Fiction (Books)

About the author

Millie bobby brown.

Millie Bobby Brown is a British Emmy Award–winning actress. She has been featured in the TIME 100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Nineteen Steps is her first book.

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Book Review: Millie Bobby Brown of ‘Stranger Things’ weaves a romance novel into a WWII disaster

This cover image released by William Morrow shows “Nineteen Steps” by Millie Bobby Brown. (William Morrow via AP)

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“Nineteen Steps” by Millie Bobby Brown (William Morrow)

The actor who plays Eleven on “Stranger Things” wrote a romance novel! That’ll be the headline for too much coverage of “Nineteen Steps,” so let’s set that aside and consider the debut book from Millie Bobby Brown on its own merits.

It’s a love story set in London, spanning the wartime years of 1942-1945. Nellie is the protagonist, an 18-year-old young woman who works as a secretary for the mayor of Bethnal Green, in the city’s East End. She lives with her mother, father, brother and little sister, and next door to her best friend Babs, whose brother, Billy, is besotted with Nellie after a childhood spent together.

In the wake of the Blitz, Germany continues to selectively bomb England, forcing Nellie and the rest of Bethnal Green’s citizens into an underground air raid shelter many nights. That’s where those foreboding titular steps come in: Every time they descend to the shelter, Nellie “counted them like usual. Nineteen, turn right and seven more.”

Spoiler fans can stop at this point and Google the “Bethnal Green steps,” but what’s the fun in that? Brown dedicates the book to her grandmother (“Nanny Ruth, who told me this story”), but the book is being marketed as fiction, with all the usual disclaimers about how any “references to real people, events, etc…. are intended only to provide a sense of authenticity, and are used fictitiously.”

The story starts to sing when Nellie meets Ray, a U.S. Air Force pilot stationed nearby. The prose describing their first kiss fits the moon-eyed mood as the young couple falls hopelessly in love. “If ever she had to pick a moment she’d want to last for eternity, she thought, this would be the one she’d choose,” writes Brown.

Honestly, most readers could predict the rest of the plot at this point. The love triangle involving Nellie, Billy and Ray, plays a central role, and, of course, what happens on those steps, but the book is really about making your way when consumed by grief. And in that aspect it succeeds, painting a brave portrait of Nellie and her family and friends as they struggle to survive and find happiness in a world gone mad.

Time will tell if Brown has more stories in her, but her late, beloved grandmother would assuredly be proud of this first effort.

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Book Review: Nineteen Steps

Kelley moulton, regional history librarian, recommends nineteen steps by millie bobby brown..

Best known for her role as Eleven in the Netflix original Stranger Things , Millie Bobby Brown is stepping into a new role, this time as an author. Her debut novel, Nineteen Steps , brings pieces of history from both the world stage as well as from her family’s history into a story about a small group of individuals living in London during World War II.

Brown takes us through time, starting in 1993 and then back to 1943 as we follow the lead character Nellie Morris in her daily life living under the threat of the Germans and air raid sirens.

But what is a life of fear and threat without a little romance to break up the day?

A potential bus accident lands Nellie into the arms of an American airman, Ray. Yet World War II, even in a book, leads to more than its share of heartbreak and trauma.

Now for the warning: Tears were spilled reading this book. I will also confess that I am one of those people who must read the last chapter when I am a quarter to halfway through to determine if I will keep reading, thus I was slightly prepared for what happened but that made very little difference in the end.

Overall, I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would, and I recommend it (as long as you are properly warned to have the tissue if you cry over books like me). It focused much more on the life of an individual just trying to do her part and survive the harrowing time that was London between 1943 and 1945 than the actual fighting and the pure romance that other novels of this variety focus on.

I also learned more than I anticipated. Brown brings in an event that happened in the Bethnal Green tube station that I personally had never heard about, and I take that as the sign of a good historical fiction book.

Find it in New Books Fiction here.

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Nineteen Steps Kindle Edition

The New York Times bestseller from iconic Emmy-nominated actress and producer MILLIE BOBBY BROWN: Nineteen Steps

"My inner history-loving teenage geek clapped her hands in ecstasy at the thought of a historical novel penned by Enola Holmes, and she wasn't disappointed!” — Kate Quinn

Love blooms in the darkest days…

It’s 1942, and air raid sirens continue to wail around London. Eighteen-year-old Nellie Morris counts every day lucky that she emerges from the underground shelters unharmed, her loving family still surrounding her.

After a chance encounter with Ray, an American airman stationed nearby, she becomes enchanted with the idea of a broader world. Just as she begins to embrace an exciting new life with Ray, a terrible incident occurs during an air raid one evening, tearing her world apart. But when it seems all hope is lost, Nellie finds that, against all odds, love and happiness can triumph.

Nineteen Steps is a deeply affecting, mesmerizing page-turner inspired by the author’s family history. An epic story of longing, loss, and secrets, Millie Bobby Brown’s propulsive debut introduces an unforgettable, brave young woman and boldly portrays the strength in the power of love.

“Inspired by my Nanny Ruth, this book is very personal and close to my heart. I grew up listening to stories about her time living through the war. I’m honored to keep her story alive.” — Millie Bobby Brown

• Print length 308 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publisher William Morrow
• Publication date September 12, 2023
• File size 4924 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

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Editorial Reviews

“Valuable… There is no healing without remembering, and there is no remembering without stories. So thank goodness Brown’s Nanny Ruth, who was a survivor of the crush, told her granddaughter what she remembered… You might open Nineteen Steps for the celebrity name, but stick with it for the history of an under-recognized event of World War II.”                                                 — New York Times Book Review

“The book is really about making your way when consumed by grief. And in that aspect it succeeds, painting a brave portrait of Nellie and her family and friends as they struggle to survive and find happiness in a world gone mad… [Brown's] late, beloved grandmother would assuredly be proud of this first effort.” — Associated Press

“ Millie Bobby Brown may be best known for taking down Demogorgons in  Stranger Things  and solving impossible cases as Enola Holmes, but the actress establishes herself as an equally powerful writer with her poignant debut novel  Nineteen Steps . Inspired by true events from her family history…Brown refuses to shy away from the realities of war in her coming-of-age story, exploring love, loss, and courage in a way that is both bold and intensely moving.” — Entertainment Weekly

“[An] emotionally layered debut… Brown’s narrative, which is based on real events, effectively balances the danger and deprivations of war in a city under siege with the joys of family, friends, and romance. This highly charged historical romance offers intimate insight into WWII London and the challenges of overcoming loss.” — Publishers Weekly

“My inner history-loving teenage geek clapped her hands in ecstasy at the thought of a historical novel penned by Enola Holmes, and she wasn't disappointed! Dreamer Nellie Morris spends her days typing and her nights sheltering from the German bombers screaming overhead, imagining a bigger world beyond her East End London roots—and a burgeoning romance with an American airman offers hope beyond the end of the war. But one terrible night at the nearby air raid shelter tears Nellie's world apart and she must find the courage to make a new life from the wreckage. Millie Bobby Brown pens a sweet, sensitive coming-of-age story drawn from her own family history —Nineteen Steps is a lovely read for fans everywhere.” — Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye

“In this remarkable debut, Brown brings to life an unfamiliar—and shocking—tragedy that took place during World War II in London’s East End. Supported by a rich cast of characters, her tale of first love, poignant regrets, and the search for truth makes for a spellbinding read. Enthralling.”  — Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Spectacular

“Centered around a real-life historical event that counts as the UK’s largest loss of civilian life during the Second World War, Nineteen Steps shines a brilliant light on a dark moment in history. Actress and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Millie Bobby Brown soars in her debut novel, bringing to life the joy and heartache of wartime England, as well as the visceral terror that came with frequent German bombings over London. Full of heartbreak and hope, and overflowing with vibrant characters you’ll root hard for, Nineteen Steps will plunge you into the 1940s East End and will stay in your heart for a long time to come.”  — Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Daughter

“Heartfelt and warm, with quietly heroic characters that embody the innocence of first love and wartime patriotism, Brown’s debut is sure to be popular among readers who enjoy novels that bring lesser-known notable events from the past to life.” — Booklist

About the Author

Millie Bobby Brown  is a British Emmy Award–nominated actress. She has been featured in the  TIME  100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.  Nineteen Steps  is her first book. 

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BWYQP2R2
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ William Morrow (September 12, 2023)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 12, 2023
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 4924 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 308 pages
• #60 in 20th Century Historical Romance (Books)
• #114 in Historical World War II Fiction
• #248 in Women's Historical Fiction

About the author

Millie bobby brown.

Millie Bobby Brown is a British Emmy Award–winning actress. She has been featured in the TIME 100 list of the world’s most influential people and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Nineteen Steps is her first book.

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Nineteen Steps book review

Posted January 26, 2024 by Jordann @thebookbloglife in 1 star , book reviews / 0 Comments

The New York Times bestseller from iconic Emmy-nominated actress and producer MILLIE BOBBY BROWN: Nineteen Steps is a captivating novel inspired by the true events of her family's experience during World War II. Love blooms in the darkest days… It’s 1942, and air raid sirens continue to wail around London. Eighteen-year-old Nellie Morris counts every day lucky that she emerges from the underground shelters unharmed, her loving family still surrounding her. After a chance encounter with Ray, an American airman stationed nearby, Nellie becomes enchanted with the idea of a broader world. Just when Nellie begins to embrace an exciting new life with Ray, a terrible incident occurs during an air raid one evening, tearing Nellie’s world is torn apart. But just when it seems all hope is lost, Nellie finds that, against all odds, love and happiness can triumph. Nineteen Steps is a deeply affecting, mesmerizing page-turner inspired by the author’s family history. An epic story of longing, loss, and secrets, Millie Bobby Brown’s propulsive debut introduces an unforgettable, brave young woman and boldly portrays the strength in the power of love. “Inspired by my Nanny Ruth, this book is very personal and close to my heart. I grew up listening to stories about her time living through the war. I’m honored to keep her story alive.”—Millie Bobby Brown

I am a sucker for historical fiction and although I’m always a little dubious about celebrity written books but thought I would take a risk. It did not pay off. Nineteen Steps is an awfully written book, and deals with a real life trauma trivially and as a mere plot point. This was possibly the worst experience I have had with a book in a long time.

Characters in Nineteen Steps

The story follows Nellie living in Bethnal Green as she tries to survive through the backend of WWII. The entire story centres around her need to find normality surrounded by uncertain times, and I found her SO boring. I think the biggest issue with her was the way she uses and discards people, especially her lifelong best friends. It was painful seeing her reaction to some of the worst things that could happen to a person. There was no depth and I still don’t know how I managed to finish Nineteen Steps, because Nellie infuriated me all the way through.

Another special mention to the atrocious love triangle that played out throughout this one. If you have ever wanted a pining nice guy go up against the rugged American but without any personality or chemistry then this is the book for you. The entire relationship in this book was based off the fact that he didn’t live in the UK, nothing else, nothing in common just the fact that he was born somewhere else. It was baffling and so frustrating, and not even because I wanted her to with the other guy because he was just as bad. It was just awfully written.

Bad Bits in Nineteen Steps

This could be a whole page on this blog, but let me start by saying Millie Bobby Brown should not have been allowed to write this book let alone publish it. Nineteen Steps manages to navigate not one, not two but three major tragedies in one family, all of them awfully foreshadowed and treated with a complete lack of respect. I would have less of an issue with it if it had been fictional, but she based this utter garbage from real people’s experience and trauma. The entire book reads:

• Nellie moaning about her life with some foreshadowing.
• Something awful happens.
• Nellie is sad for a couple of pages
• Continues her life moaning about something else and some more awful foreshadowing
• Tragedy hits
• Nellie shows some emotion for a couple of paragraphs
• Moves on and finds ‘the joy’ in her life again
• Rinse and repeat until you get to the end.

I have never been so disgusted by the way something handles such a sensitive topic. It needed a more experienced writer, which baffles me further because she had a ghostwriter and who knows how many editors, all of which ignored the blatant issues all the way through the story. Traumatic experiences were used as plot points that happened and were completely superficial. It was awful to read about.

I think the best thing about this book was that it raised awareness for the Bethnal Green Tube Disaster and after reading I did some more research. But please don’t read this book if you want anything more than superficial ramblings because those people deserve better.

Have you ever read a book and been completely let down? Which one? Let me know in the comments.

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Millie Bobby Brown Flipped Family History Into Upcoming Debut Novel ‘Nineteen Steps’

By Larisha Paul

Larisha Paul

Millie Bobby Brown is reimagining history. On September 12, the Stranger Things actress will release her debut novel Nineteen Steps . The book builds around her family history by drawing inspiration from stories shared by her grandmother Ruth, a survivor of the 1943 Bethnal Green tube incident that left 173 dead and dozens more injured after panic on a staircase led to a major crowd crush. But Brown’s book takes a less harrowing approach, following the personal life of an 18-year-old girl coming of age during World War II.

“Inspired by my Nanny Ruth, this book is very personal and close to my heart,” Brown shared in a statement. “I grew up listening to stories about her time living through the war. I’m honored to keep her story alive.”

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“With a job assisting the mayor and nights spent at the local pub with her best friend, Nellie does her best to hold onto remnants of normalcy,” a synopsis of the novel reads. “After a chance encounter with Ray, an American airman stationed nearby, Nellie becomes enchanted with the idea of a broader world. Just when Nellie begins to embrace an exciting new life with Ray, a terrible incident occurs during an air raid one evening, and the consequences are catastrophic. As the truth about that night is revealed, Nellie’s world is torn apart. When it seems all hope is lost, Nellie finds that, against all odds, love and happiness can triumph.”

Nineteen Steps will be published by HarperCollins with edits from Liz Stein, who described the book as a “tender, inspiring story about female resilience and the human spirit.” She added: “Both heart-warming and heart-breaking, it’s a novel that portrays the strength and courage we find in family, friendship, and community. I was incredibly moved by the haunting, true tragedy at the core of the novel and enchanted by the unforgettable portrait of love in the time of war.”

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Run the ‘Rocky’ steps to ‘Oz’ as Library of Congress kicks off ‘Summer Movies on the Lawn’ this week

Jason Fraley | [email protected]

July 8, 2024, 1:45 PM

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The Library of Congress’ annual “Summer Movies on the Lawn” series returns to the nation’s capital this week.

The weekly outdoor movie series will screen classic films from the Library’s National Film Registry on Thursday evenings at sundown on the southeast lawn of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building.

“We’ve been doing this since 2017,” Chief Communications Officer Roswell Encina told WTOP. “When Dr. Hayden became Librarian of Congress, she really wanted to make the Library more accessible and relatable. We have a beautiful lawn outside our Thomas Jefferson Building where you can see the sunset with a nice view of the Capitol building. … It’s been very popular, not only among Hill staffers, but folks in the community.”

The series kicks off this Thursday, July 11 with Judy Garland in the classic MGM musical fantasy “The Wizard of Oz” (1939), which was inducted into the National Film Registry during the inaugural class of 1989.

“It’s a big year for ‘The Wizard of Oz’ because it turns 85 years old this summer,” Encina said. “Also, with the release of ‘Wicked’ later this year, I think there is a lot of hype going back to this original story of ‘Oz.’ … Every time we try to show this movie, it gets so much enthusiasm whether it’s from the older generation or new folks discovering the film. People are singing along, some are even dressing up, so it’s definitely become a classic.”

July 18 brings the classic Gene Kelly musical “An American in Paris” (1951), which joined the Registry in 1993.

“It’s our kind of tribute to the (Paris) Olympics,” Encina said. “We’re hoping you can get the best of both worlds and enjoy Paris on the lawn, but also enjoy this American classic. It’s not only remembered for the actors who performed in it, but because of the music. This is classic George Gershwin. The Library of Congress is the home of George and Ira Gershwin’s papers, so many of the songs in this movie resonate. … It’s Hollywood at its best.”

July 25 delivers Gina Prince-Bythewood’s “Love and Basketball” (2000), which just joined the Registry last year.

“It’s one of the newer ones that was inducted,” Encina said. “It’s almost a quarter century old and everybody remembers this movie with Omar Epps. I think with the popularity of not only men’s basketball but women’s basketball, the popularity of Caitlin Clark right now, this is one of those few movies back in the day that really featured a female athlete. … With the backdrop of the love story, it was very unique for the time and to this day.”

Aug. 1 brings the beloved boxing classic “Rocky” (1976), which joined the National Film Registry in 2006.

“We’re sticking with the sports theme because of the Olympics,” Encina said. “It’s become so iconic, everything about this movie has become iconic, whether it’s the theme song or Sylvester Stallone screaming, ‘Adrian!’ or climbing up those steps in Philadelphia. … We’re also hoping, because we have our own iconic steps to the front door of the Library of Congress, that people will run the steps, play the theme song and have some fun with it.”

Finally, Aug. 8 brings Disney’s animated “Lady and the Tramp” (1955), which was just inducted last year.

“The iconic scene between the Lady and the Tramp with that spaghetti, people have been reenacting that since this movie came out,” Encina said. “It’s hard to believe that this movie came out in 1955. Again, just going with the whole Olympic and Paris theme, we’re keeping everyone romanticizing a time in Europe.”

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Hailed by The Washington Post for “his savantlike ability to name every Best Picture winner in history," Jason Fraley began at WTOP as Morning Drive Writer in 2008, film critic in 2011 and Entertainment Editor in 2014, providing daily arts coverage on-air and online.

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If President Biden seriously considered departing the race, the first lady would be the most important figure other than Mr. Biden himself in reaching that decision.

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By Katie Rogers

Katie Rogers covers the Biden administration and the Biden family and reported from Washington. She is the author of a book on first ladies.

• June 28, 2024

President Biden knew immediately after stepping off the stage in Atlanta on Thursday night that the debate had gone wrong. In those first stricken moments after a raspy, rambling and at times incoherent performance, he turned to his wife, Jill Biden.

Whatever was going to happen next in Mr. Biden’s last presidential race, after perhaps the worst moment of his long political life, was always going to come down to her. His wife of 47 years had entered his life all those decades ago, reluctant to get into politics but fully embracing his dreams and his belief that he would one day reach the White House.

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If Mr. Biden were to seriously consider departing the race, allowing a younger candidate to replace him, the first lady would be the most important figure — other than the president himself — in reaching that decision.

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