This is a well-curated collection of wartime Christmas memories with plenty of helpful commentary by the author. I was struck by the sometimes stark contrasts between the experiences of the poor and the better-off, town and country, captive and free.
By its nature this was an episodic book, a series of sketches, which involved some repetition and did not make for a really satisfying read for me. However, I imagine that for someone who has memories of the period it would be a fascinating account that would trigger all sorts of reminiscences, and be eagerly read in search of items that would strike a chord.
There were plenty of lighter moments and I particularly enjoyed the chapter on presents, but felt the book, perhaps rightly, ended on a more sombre note which highlighted the importance of the true spirit of Christmas.
By its nature this was an episodic book, a series of sketches, which involved some repetition and did not make for a really satisfying read for me. However, I imagine that for someone who has memories of the period it would be a fascinating account that would trigger all sorts of reminiscences, and be eagerly read in search of items that would strike a chord.
There were plenty of lighter moments and I particularly enjoyed the chapter on presents, but felt the book, perhaps rightly, ended on a more sombre note which highlighted the importance of the true spirit of Christmas.