When the Small Creatures Wake

It is 1982 in Gritstone, North West England. Despite the mill town being in the grip of a deepening recession, the community survives.

Stella, always wanting more in adulthood after a childhood being stigmatised, is trapped in an abusive relationship. Her teenage twins consider a different, better future for themselves, but are compromised by fears for their mothers' safety. Meanwhile, Stella's mother, Alice ignores the chaos - living high above town on the moors, immersed in the natural world with her memories embedded in her beloved countryside.

Jean, a single mother, irrepressible and tough, carries on regardless of the slow decline in the industry that has held their community together for centuries. Midge, her youngest daughter, introspective and intelligent, has dreams of a future different to the adults around her, but pays a high price for her curiosity and thirst for knowledge.

When the Small Creatures Wake is a story of individuals linked by community and circumstance, abuse and austerity, conflict and challenge. But above all, it is a story of hope, friendship, humour, and resilience.

By Brigid Griffin

Published by Write on the Tyne