The Little Match Girl Strikes Back by Emma Carroll & Lauren Child

Historical fiction from Emma Carroll is guaranteed to be outstanding but The Little Match Girl Strikes Back is something truly special. I have memories of reading the original Hans Christian Andersen story of The Little Match Girl as a child. I have also used it with Year 6 classes near Christmas to help children think about those who may not have all the things they typically associate with the holidays and how we can help. This adaptation of the classic tale is everything I hoped for as a teacher and as a parent. It will be a powerful tool for helping children unpack Victorian poverty and hardship, understand the desperation of the original story, and extend their knowledge of life at the time. The sense of hope and determination that runs through the story paints a whole new picture of the “Little Match Girl”, taking her from a character of pity to one of strength. She becomes a role model for standing up for what is right and not being afraid to take action for change.

Bridie’s family has very little. Their only income is her mother’s pay from the match factory and the meager amounts Bridie brings in from selling matches in the street. Her mother is ill with “phossy jaw” – a terrible condition caused by exposure to the phosphorus the matches are dipped in. It is killing women in the factory but the owner doesn’t care. He is only concerned about his bottom line – the workers are dispensable. After a series of misfortunes, Bridie is left with just three broken matches. As she strikes each one, she sees images of a different future. With the help of new friends who do care for her well-being, Bridie encourages the women to stand up for themselves and strike.

Based on a real match workers’ strike, this story unveils a piece of history many may be unaware of. It would make a fantastic companion to Lightning Strike by Tanya Landman (Barrington Stoke) which also addresses the terrible conditions of London’s East End in the 1880s and the match workers’ strike.

The Little Match Girl Strikes Back is a beautiful book. Lauren Child’s illustrations breathe fire into the already powerful story. Published in hardback, it has a classic feel and would make a wonderful gift.

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