Most important book in my life. I was a very late reader - it was only my primary school teacher reading from The Wind in the Willows that set me going. My mum then gave me a green-closed edition of the book, inscribed by her on my ninth birthday, and it's now my most precious book.
I too see myself as Mole. Increasingly resistant to Toad who reminds me of Boris Johnson.
The chapter I didn't understand at the time - Piper at the Gates of Dawn - is now my favourite part of the book, lyrical, mystical, beautiful
The manner in which you capture the passions, pains and innocence of your own younger self is sheer genius. Love this. Frog and Toad Together was always on our bookshelf.
Most important book in my life. I was a very late reader - it was only my primary school teacher reading from The Wind in the Willows that set me going. My mum then gave me a green-closed edition of the book, inscribed by her on my ninth birthday, and it's now my most precious book.
I too see myself as Mole. Increasingly resistant to Toad who reminds me of Boris Johnson.
The chapter I didn't understand at the time - Piper at the Gates of Dawn - is now my favourite part of the book, lyrical, mystical, beautiful
This is lovely, Philip - a real little jewel of memoir!
The manner in which you capture the passions, pains and innocence of your own younger self is sheer genius. Love this. Frog and Toad Together was always on our bookshelf.
Thank you! I think there always needs to be a place to come up for air. And perhaps even laugh a little at the absurdity of it all!
Well done
I love this piece, Philip. The narrative, the voice, the vulnerability. It’s all here, friend.