Joanna Toye

Joanna Toye is a celebrated author, best known for her series, "The Shop Girls." The series was inspired by her visit to a small exhibition about a former Wolverhampton department store. Toye's writing brilliantly depicts the struggles and triumphs of life in Britain during the Second World War, with a particular focus on the experiences of shop girls.

As a former radio and TV scriptwriter, Toye draws on her family's war experiences and her own memories of shopping before the advent of online retail giants like Amazon. The series features three shop girl friends who band together to face various challenges, including bomb damage, black marketeers, and their own personal dramas. Toye's writing vividly captures the spirit of resilience and camaraderie that defined the era.

In addition to "The Shop Girls" series, Toye has also authored "The Little Penguin Bookshop," the first novel in a new series. Toye remains committed to exploring the world of retail and the people who bring it to life. Her work offers a compelling glimpse into the past while also resonating with contemporary audiences. Toye's social media presence, including her Twitter and Facebook accounts, provides further insights into her life and work.