I decided to read these after watching the BBC series. While I quite joyed the show, it did not do these books justice. The stories have been toned down, as well as condensed, for TV - and the reality of the stories in the books is grittier, more heartbreaking, but also a deeper look into all of the wonderful characters. 
 Out of all the books, I enjoyed Shadows of the Workhouse most of all. The series of books opened my eyes not only to the shocking living conditions in the East End in the 50s, but also to the workhouses - I discovered I knew nothing of the true horror. Stories of Jane, and Peggy and Frank, stayed with me long after I finished reading. 
 What was wonderful was the love, humour and strength that shone through from so many of the characters, in the far of so much adversity and sorrow. It was an education, as well as a wonderful collection of stories, and made me very thankful for a lot of things we take for granted in today's society.