It’s 1888, 12 year-old John Nicol starts his first job on the construction site of the Forth Rail Bridge with a fear of heights. He takes a deep breath and embraces his new life away from the school playground and up the iron slopes of the brand new bridge. John’s life both on and off the site is fraught with worry as he learns to face his fears as well as stick up for himself under the tormenting eye of the Murdoch family. He knows it’s up to him now to support those at home and he tries his best to learn the trade as quick as he can. With the help of his friend Cora and the visits from his fluffy sidekick, Rusty the squirrel, does he finally begin to relax into to his new surroundings high above the Forth. A gift of an autograph book fills John with joy and he his determined to track down famous people to sign the pages. It’s not long before he has a few scrawls from the likes of library legend Andrew Carnegie to the Prince of Wales! With money scarce and the end of his time on the bridge near, John has to find a way to keep a roof over his family’s head. Meanwhile, the Murdoch’s have more in store for him and he has to summon all his courage if he’s to survive their wrath.
Barbara Henderson has crafted a superb depiction of life for young John on the site of the famous Forth Rail Bridge as the three cantilevers take shape above the Forth’s murky waters. The illustrations from Sandra McGowan only add to the meticulous research and information shared throughout. As soon as you turn the first page you are there with him as he takes his first tentative steps into his new life as a Brigger and the dangers amid the joy of what comes his way. A truly honest and heart-warming story of loyalty, friendship and strength against all odds.
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