Nella Last's Peace: The Post-War Diaries Of Housewife 49

Description

'I've met such interesting people, and always heard unbelievable stories about people's lives. If I could put all in written language and sequence, I could write books, I'm sure.' - Nella Last, September 1946 Outwardly Nella's life was probably seen as ordinary; but behind this mask were a lively mind and a persistent pen - a pen that never gave up over almost three decades, reporting, describing, pondering and disclosing. Nella, 55 when the war ends, writes of what ordinary people felt during those years of privation, hope and the rebuilding of Britain, providing a moving and inspiring account of the years that shaped British society today. Her diary offers a detailed, moving and humorous narrative of the changing experiences of ordinary people at this time, and thoughts on the aftermath of war and whether 'peace' really meant peace, for everyone.

Robert Malcolmson is Professor Emeritus of history at Queen's University, Kingston, Canada. Patricia Malcolmson is a historian and a former executive in the Ontario public service. They live in Cobourg, Ontario.

"'I've met such interesting people, and always heard unbelievable stories about people's lives. If I could put all in written language and sequence, I could write books, I'm sure.' Nella Last, September 1946" "'A fantastic story...This is not the war of the newsreels - it's about tiny domestic difficulties, lumpy custard.' Victoria Wood" "'I relished it...her personality is so powerful...There are so many things to admire about her.' Margaret Forster" "'A classic of wartime literature...highly engaging, very moving. All Home Front life is here, especially the kitchen sink.' Simon Garfield" "'Nella Last may be the most prolific writer you've never heard of. It's not necessary to read Last's first volume to become immediately absorbed by her honest and heartfelt story.' Nora Krug, Washington Post"