This story tells how families were fragmented and how some lucky ones found each other. Although fiction, the horror of the greatest loss of civilian life, in a Scottish town, in World War II, is described, as is the warmth and resilience of the `Bankies`. The author has brought the Blitz alive through Lenny and her war experience.
I loved this book when I read it because it’s dark, but it is positive in the end, the prose is great, the language is rich and the whole tapestry of these imperfect human beings and their lives in this small and slightly weird community is very rich and satisfying.
I also enjoyed it because it’s an escape, which is sometimes what reading should be – it’s funny and gentle but very true about people.
It discusses unflinchingly themes of sexuality, gender roles, death and dysfunctional family, and all the while references Bechdel’s infectious love for literature, philosophy, and the works of great feminist and queer writers.
There is something about this poem that I find incredibly comforting. It always makes me cry, but in a good way!
This poem reminded me of those times of uncontrollable laughter which are so contagious. But I also found it empowering.
This is my favourite love poem, it is just beautiful!
This is a short poem which I found truly empowering and liberating.
I think this poem highlights how wonderful it is to love and accept yourself as you are, and in a culture that’s becoming increasingly obsessed with body image, appearance and cosmetic surgery, that’s an important message for all woman to hear.
This selection of short stories is like a lovely box of chocolates as each tale excites the imagination but is finished all too soon.
