Books
by Alan Johnson
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The Long and Winding Road |
It might have been better to start with the first two books of his memoir since the territory would have been altogether less familiar and consequently perhaps more engaging. This third volume covers his accession to union leadership and transition to cabinet office. He is a very likeable, honest politician but in trying to avoid seeming to boast about his considerable personal and political achievements, his discretion and somewhat overdone self-deprecation tend to dull the narrative.
(Jeremy Miller - bwl 85 Summer 2017) |
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This Boy: A Memoir of a childhood |
This book had been on my list for too long and I can't recommend it enough. Humble beginnings of the former Home Secretary are an understatement. The poverty and tragedy of Alan and his sister's childhoods in the slums of North Kensington take your breath away, however, his memoir is not miserable but full of warmth, love and hope and a strong sense of community. It is really a work of social history. I am full of admiration for him and his wonderful sister.
(Rebecca Howell - bwl 103 Winter 2022) |
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