Mixing it up

Categories: uncategorized

Date: 03 July 2007 19:26:38

Auto-biographies are a great way to find out some general information about how it used to be in areas you know (as long as you choose the right people's stories). They are also, unless they start with a disturbing story of abuse, a gentle way to relax.

Brenda Blethyn's autobiography Mixed Fancies , my latest read, is one of those books which meet both criteria. Her childhood on the Kent coast is relayed in a way which is heart warming yet honest (in a way which is both understated and touching). It contains a string of name drops and thanks, couched in interesting, warm anacdotes, which make a gentle read where you feel you are looking at a series of snapshots rather than being overly intrusive.

The most interesting part from my point of view was finding out that the dress code for students at the institution where I work used to be far stricter than it is now. I really can't imagine telling them off for not wearing stockings!!!