3 Review(s)

Best known for his hilarious and charming tales of life as a teacher and school inspector, Gervase Phinn gives a unique glimpse of his own childhood: of life growing up in a pre-war, red-brick house (with an inside loo) in Rotherham. Providing a magical portrait of growing up in 1950s Yorkshire, Gervase tells of his three siblings, mother and father; of adventurous school days and holidays; as well as his tentative steps into the adult world. There are also numerous uproarious and captivating stories: including an incident involving a broken greenhouse, crashing his brother's newly restored bike, as well as secrets about his first dates, family trips to Blackpool. With a wicked ear for the comical, and a sharp eye for detail, this beautifully written memoir visits poignant moments, significant events and precious memories from a boy called Gervase.