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'To Serve and Protect': As told to Laurence Piper by Brian Morrow (30 Years of Democracy in South Africa)
by Laurence PiperThis book provides a detailed account of the history, consequences, and events leading up to the ‘Inkathagate Scandal’ which changed the course of South African history. It states that Inkathagate was the work of one man – Brian Morrow – who outraged by the racism, corruption and torture rife in the Security Branch of the South African Police in Durban where he worked, resolved to do something to expose the reality of apartheid hidden from white South Africa and the world. It also discusses the Inkatha files, which Morrow had covertly copied and handed to the media in 1991, and also analyses Morrow’s purpose, ambitions, and what followed after.Print editions not for sale in Sub-Saharan Africa. This book is part of Routledge’s co-published series 30 Years of Democracy in South Africa, in collaboration with UNISA Press, which reflects on the past years of a democratic South Africa and assesses the future opportunities and challenges.
'To Walk in the Dark': Military Intelligence in the English Civil War, 1642-1646
by John EllisDuring the bloody years of the First English Civil War, as the battles of Edgehill, Newbury and Naseby raged, another war was being fought. Its combatants fought with cunning and deceit, a hidden conflict that nevertheless would steer the course of history. The story of the spies and intelligence-gatherers of the Roundheads and Royalists is one that sheds new light on the birth of the Commonwealth. In 'To Walk in the Dark', intelligence specialist John Ellis presents the first comprehensive analysis of the First English Civil War intelligence services. He details the methods of the Roundhead spies who provided their army commanders with a constant flow of information about the movements of the King's armies, describes the earliest use of code-breaking and mail interception and shows how the Cavalier intelligence forces were overcome. He also reveals the intelligence personnel themselves: the shadowy spymasters, agents and femmes fatales. The descriptions of how intelligence information was used in the main Civil War battles are particularly fascinating and show - for the first time - how intelligence information played a decisive role in determining the outcome of the Civil War itself.
'To fill, forbear, or adorne': The Organ Accompaniment of Restoration Sacred Music
by Rebecca HerissoneThis is the first study to provide a systematic and thorough investigation of continuo realization styles appropriate to Restoration sacred music, an area of performance practice that has never previously been properly assessed. Rebecca Herissone undertakes detailed analysis of a group of organ books closely associated with the major Restoration composers Purcell, Blow and Humfrey, and the London institutions where they spent their professional lives. By investigating the relationship between the organ books' two-stave arrangements and full scores of the same pieces, Herissone demonstrates that the books are subtle sources of information to the accompanist, not just short or skeleton scores. Using this evidence, she formulates a model for continuo realization of this repertory based on the doubling of vocal parts, an approach that differs significantly from that adopted by most modern editors, and which throws into question much of the accepted continuo practice in modern performance of this repertory.
'Total Germany': The Royal Navy's War Against the Axis Powers 1939–1945
by David WraggThe author of A Century of British Naval Aviation, 1909-2009 examines the losses and successes of the Royal Navy during World War Two. On the declaration of war in 1939, the British Admiralty signaled all warships and naval bases &“Total Germany, Total Germany.&” It was fortunate that of Germany&’s three armed services, the Kriegsmarine under Grosseradmiral Erich Raeder was the least well prepared. True, Admiral Karl Donitz&’s U-Boat force was to give the Allies many anxious times, but Hitler was never comfortable or competent in his handling of naval surface forces. &“Total Germany&” is a concise yet comprehensive account of the Royal Navy&’s part in the war at sea and the measures taken to ensure victory. The different approaches taken by the warring countries are expertly examined. The author reviews the differing strategies and tactics of the various theatres such as the Far East, Mediterranean, Atlantic and Arctic. &“Not only does it cover every major event during WWII the author brings up some other less well known actions. A thoroughly enjoyable read.&”—Ton Class Association
'Troilus and Criseyde'
by Jenni Nuttall'Troilus and Criseyde', Geoffrey Chaucer's most substantial completed work, is a long historical romance; its famous tale of love and betrayal in the Trojan War later inspired William Shakespeare. This reader's guide, written specifically for students of medieval literature, provides a scene-by-scene paraphrase and commentary on the whole text. Each section explains matters of meaning, interpretation, plot structure and character development, the role of the first-person narrating voice, Chaucer's use of his source materials and elements of the poem's style. Brief and accessible discussions of key themes and sources (for example the art of love, the holy bond of things, Fortune and Thebes) are provided in separate textboxes. An ideal starting point for studying the text, this book helps students through the initial language barrier and allows readers to enjoy and understand this medieval masterpiece.
'Twas Nochebuena
by Roseanne Greenfield Thong’Twas Nochebuena and all through our casa, every creature was kneading tamale masa...It’s Christmas Eve, and you’re invited to a Nochebuena celebration! Follow a family as they prepare to host a night filled with laughter, love, and Latino tradition. Make tasty tamales and hang colorful adornos (decorations) on the walls. Gather to sing festive canciones (songs) while sipping champurrado (hot chocolate). After the midnight feast has been served and the last gifts have been unwrapped, it’s time to cheer, “Feliz Navidad and to all a good night!”Savor the magic of Nochebuena with a holiday tale you’ll want to read again and again.
'Twas The Night After Christmas
by Sabrina JeffriesDear Sir,I feel I should inform you that your mother is very ill. If you wish to see her before it is too late, you should come at once.Sincerely,Mrs. Camilla Stuart Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, has led an unabashed rogue's life, letting no woman near his heart. Inexplicably abandoned as a child to be raised by distant relatives, Waverly never forgave his parents. Only when a letter arrives, is his resolve shaken, and he takes what may be his last chance to discover the truth... Two surprises await him at Montcliff where he returns for Christmas. His mother is perfectly healthy and couldn't be further from her deathbed. The second is Camilla Stuart, her lady's maid, a lively vicar's widow, too bright and beautiful not to arouse the scoundrel in Pierce. Though she alone gives him reason to prolong his stay, Waverly is soon faced with more secrets... Why he was abandoned as a child, and why Camilla is so eager to reunite mother and son. Camilla herself is caught up in love's complications since the arrival of the irresistible earl. As his bold flirtation and suggestive whispers draw her dangerously close, can anything protect her vulnerable heart? If they are to share an honest love, then secrets must be spilled - even if the truth may ruin everything they have...
'Twas the Bite Before Christmas: An Andy Carpenter Mystery (An Andy Carpenter Novel #28)
by David RosenfeltIn National Bestseller David Rosenfelt’s ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas, all through the Carpenter house, five dogs are stirring, and not even Andy can get out of working this next case at his door.Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter is at the Tara Foundation’s annual Christmas party. The dog rescue organization has always been his true calling, and this is one holiday tradition he can get behind because every dog that’s come through the rescue—and their families—are invited to celebrate.This year’s party is no exception. But before the stockings can be hung by the chimney with care, homicide detectives ruin the evening. Derek Moore, one of the foundation’s best foster volunteers, is arrested for murder.Andy discovers Derek—whose real name is Bobby—is in the witness protection program after giving evidence against his former gang. The police believe Bobby murdered a member. But Bobby swears to Andy he didn’t do this. He’s built a new life, a new business, has two new dogs after being a double foster-failure.There isn’t much Andy likes about this case, but he likes Bobby. If he’s innocent, Andy wants to help. Before Andy can settle down for his long winter’s nap, he has a client’s name to clear, a murderer to catch, and two new dogs to look after: a golden and a Dalmatian. Andy’s golden retriever, Tara, will have to adjust to not being the only golden at the house while Andy gets to the bottom of this one…
'Twas the Evening of Christmas ('Twas Series)
by Glenys NellistCelebrate the Christmas season with this beautiful and heartwarming nativity retelling from beloved, bestselling author Glenys Nellist. Told in the style of the classic &‘Twas the Night Before Christmas poem, make this read aloud your new holiday tradition.&‘Twas?the Evening of Christmas shares the glorious nativity story of baby Jesus, the King of Kings! Written in both prose and poetry, this beautiful picture book will engage children and adults alike and become a new holiday tradition for families everywhere!??&‘Twas?the Evening of Christmas:Is a wonderful holiday read aloud for children ages 4-8?Shares the powerful message of Jesus and his miraculous birthFeatures beautiful artwork by celebrated illustrator Elena Selivanova?Serves as the perfect gift for the family as you prepare for the Christmas season?Presents portions written in the familiar rhyme scheme of Clement C. Moore&’s &‘Twas?the Night Before Christmas?Makes a great holiday, Christmas, or Advent, gift for readers young and old?Is the perfect addition to a Sunday school or children&’s ministry lesson, classroom setting, or homeschool library Join Glenys and families around the world as you and your family celebrate the arrival of God&’s son, Jesus.?Look for additional inspirational children&’s picture books from Glenys:?&‘Twas?the Morning of Easter?'Twas?the Evening of Christmas?Snuggle Time series?Love Letters from God series
'Twas the Morning of Easter ('Twas Series)
by Glenys NellistCelebrate the story of Jesus&’ resurrection in a fresh way as beloved, bestselling author Glenys Nellistshares the Bible stories of the season in a familiar rhythm and rhyme that children will love, following the classic style of the iconic 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. Join Glenys, beloved author of the bestselling 'Twas the Evening of Christmas, and &‘Twas the Season of Advent, as she reveals the joy and beauty of the resurrection in a unique, inspiring way.. This gorgeous picture book tells the true, biblical story of Easter through read-aloud rhymes and engaging illustrations by Elena Selivanova. With an eye-catching cover, this book is perfect for any Easter basket and sure to be a treasured Easter tradition for years to come. 'Twas the morning of Easter, before the sun rose, Two guards on a hillside were trying to doze. You see Jesus had died, only three days before, A huge stone had been placed, to sealthe cave door. 'Twas the Morning of Easter: Is written by Glenys Nellist, author of the bestselling&‘Twas series, The Wonder That Is You, and the Snuggle Time and Love Letters from God series Is told in the style of Clement C. Moore's iconic poem––'Twas the Night before Christmas Features a familiar rhythm and rhyme that children ages 4-8 will love Retells the story of the resurrection of Jesus in a fresh way Gives adults the perfect way to share the powerful story of Easter with little ones Download your free companion Activity and Resource Pack to accompany this book, which includes an Easter pageant and
'Twas the Night After Christmas (The Hellions of Halstead Hall #6)
by Sabrina JeffriesNew York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries&’s &“exceptionally entertaining&” (Booklist) Hellions of Halstead Hall series offers a charming gift of a romance about an unexpected Christmas reunion that&’s sparked by a clever ruse.Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, has never forgiven his parents for inexplicably abandoning him to distant relatives as a child. Nevertheless, when he receives word that the stranger he calls &“Mother&” is gravely ill, the unabashed rogue makes a rare return to Montcliff, his country estate. There he finds that the woman is perfectly healthy—and that he has fallen for a cunning ruse crafted by her lady&’s companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart. The lively vicar&’s widow, too bright and beautiful not to arouse the scoundrel in Pierce, is determined to reconcile the Earl and Lady Devonmont. None of them can predict the secrets, both heartening and shocking, divulged between a mother and son, or between two lovers, each haunted by their pasts, that will make this Christmas night at Montcliff one to remember—and the glorious night after, one to treasure for a lifetime in this &“sharply witty, deliciously sexy&” (Library Journal) romance.
'Twas the Season of Advent: Devotions and Stories for the Christmas Season ('Twas Series)
by Glenys NellistCelebrate the Advent season with this beautiful and heartwarming collection of devotions and stories from beloved, bestselling author Glenys Nellist. Told in the style of the classic &‘Twas the Night Before Christmas poem, make this read aloud your new holiday tradition.&‘Twas the Season of Advent is a 25-day devotional that will inspire your family as you eagerly await the arrival of Christ&’s birth!?Written in both prose and poetry, this beautiful picture book will engage children and adults alike and become a new holiday tradition for families everywhere!??&‘Twas?the Season of Advent:Is a wonderful holiday read aloud for children ages4-8?Brings Advent to life through 25 devotions featuring stories from the Old and New Testaments?Features beautiful artwork by celebrated illustrator Elena Selivanova?Serves as the perfect gift for the family as you prepare for the Christmas season?Presents portions written in the familiar rhyme scheme of Clement C. Moore&’s &‘Twas?the Night Before Christmas?Makes a great holiday, Advent, or Christmas gift for readers young and old???Is the perfect addition to a Sunday school or children&’s ministry lesson, classroom setting, or homeschool library Join Glenys and families around the world as you and your family wait, prepare for, and look forward to the arrival of God&’s son, Jesus.?Look for additional inspirational children&’s picture books from Glenys:?&‘Twas?the Morning of Easter?'Twas?the Evening of Christmas?Snuggle Time series?Love Letters from God series
'Twas the Season of Lent: Devotions and Stories for the Lenten and Easter Seasons ('Twas Series)
by Glenys Nellist&‘Twas the Season of Lent is a 40-day devotional and storybook that explores the life, words, and works of Jesus and encourages families to draw closer to God during the Lenten Season. From beloved author Glenys Nellist, this book focused on Jesus&’s mission to the least, the lost, and the lonely, with each story and accompanying prayer prompt encouraging children to try to be more like Jesus and to do what God calls them to.Written in both prose and poetry, this gorgeous picture book shares the true story of the days leading up to Christ&’s death and resurrection. The read-aloud rhymes and stunning illustrations by Elena Selivanova make this a perfect read for the whole family during the Lenten season. With an eye-catching cover decorated in shining foil and embossing, this book is designed to be a treasured tradition for families and church ministries for the Lenten season for years to come.&‘Twas the season of Lent, when for forty whole daysThe people were trying to think of new waysTo be more like Jesus—to love, care, and give,In hopes that they&’d choose the right way to live. &’Twas the Season of Lent:Is written by Glenys Nellist, author of the beloved The Wonder That Is You, and the Snuggle Time and Love Letters from God seriesIs told in the lyrical style of Clement Moore&’s iconic poem—&“&’Twas the Night before Christmas&”Explores what the season of Lent is all about and how we can draw closer to God during this timeFeatures a familiar rhythm and rhyme that children ages 4-8 will loveBrings to life the story of Jesus&’s ministry and the days leading up to his death and resurrection through Elena Selivanova&’s beautiful, rich illustrationsIs the perfect way for adults to share the powerful meaning of the Lenten season with the little ones in their lives leading up to the Easter holiday
'Tween Crayons and Curfews: Tips for Middle School Teachers
by Heather Wolpert-GawronTeach well. Be happy. In this book, Heather Wolpert-Gawron, author of the popular education blog "Tweenteacher" shares ideas for teaching an age group that too often presents a challenge for educators. With sparkling humor and a unique, fundamental understanding of the middle children of education, the award-winning teacher offers tried-and-true strategies for: Creating a tween-centric classroom environment Building community in the middle school classroom Encouraging deeper thinking and curiosity among tweens Understanding and informing tweens about how they learn Conversational and practical, this book aims to motivate and inspire middle school teachers as they work to engage their students, instruct with rigor, and improve their own experiences as Tweenteachers!
'Twelve to One' V Fighter Command Aces of the Pacific
by Tony Holmes Chris DaveyThis volume details the experiences of 107 elite American aces in combat against the Japanese. The highest scoring US pilots of World War 2 fought against the Japanese Army Air Force and Imperial Japanese Navy over the jungles of New Guinea and the Philippines. Flying P-38s and P-47s, men such as Dick Bong and Thomas McGuire won the Medal of Honor for their successes in combat in 1943-45. 'Twelve to One' is a rare document that details the 'tricks of the trade' employed by these men. This volume also includes biographies of the men whose tips for aerial combat make up the text, and the V Fighter Command Manual.
'Union is Strength'
by Albert SchrauwersNineteenth-century Canada experienced two other revolutions apart from those of W.L. Mackenzie and Louis Riel: the transition to capitalism, and to responsible government. Union Is Strength argues that these major socio-political changes happened in Ontario without a revolutionary moment because of the intertwined relationship of reformers with capitalists. Examining a small, utopian socialist group named the Children of Peace, Albert Schrauwers traces the emergence of a vibrant democratic culture in the province from the decade before the Rebellions of 1837. Schrauwers shows how the overlapping boards of unincorporated joint stock companies managed by both Toronto reformers and the Children of Peace produced a culture of deliberative democracy in competition with the "gentlemanly capitalism" of chartered corporations. Noting the ways in which Ontario's capitalist and democratic revolutions were linked through cooperative joint stock operations, he also situates these revolutions in an international context and links them to the development of Owenite socialism and Chartism in the United Kingdom. Union Is Strength is an insightful study of both nineteenth century Canada and the ways in which regional political cultures arise.
'Unsinkable': Churchill and the First World War
by Richard Freeman‘Unsinkable’ is the story of a man unjustly vilified: Churchill in the First World. His enemies – the Tory party – censured him for Antwerp, the Dardanelles and Gallipoli. He could do no right and was regarded as a dangerous maniac. But the true story is quite the opposite. This book tells how, as a brilliant First Sea Lord, Churchill was ousted by his enemies, yet clawed his way back to power against all the odds. As the leading critic of senselessly sending men to march towards machine guns his calls for ‘machines not men’ went unheeded. After a spell in the trenches he returned to London to clear his name over the Dardanelles. Then he relentless fought his way back to power through his brilliant, incisive criticism of the land war. The unsinkable politician finally became Munitions Minster in 1917, where he pushed output to unimagined levels. His weapons delivered the victory that had eluded others for the previous three years.
'Unsuitable for Females': The Rise of the Lionesses and Women's Football in England
by Carrie DunnShortlisted for the 2023 Sports Book Awards for Best Football Writing of the Year Discover the origins of the Lionesses that brought football home. England's Lionesses are on the front and back pages; their stars feature on prime-time television; they are named in the national honours lists for their contribution to their sport and to society. The names of Lucy Bronze, Steph Houghton and Ellen White are emblazoned across the backs of children’s replica jerseys. These women are top athletes – and top celebrities. But in 1921, the Football Association introduced a ban on women’s football, pronouncing the sport 'quite unsuitable for females'. That ban would last for half a century - but despite official prohibition the women’s game went underground. From the Dick, Kerr Ladies touring the world to the Lost Lionesses who played at the unsanctioned Women's World Cup in Mexico in 1971, generations of women defied the restrictions and laid the foundations for today's Lionesses - so much so that in 2018 England's Women’s Super League became the first fully professional league in Europe...when just a few decades previously women were forbidden to play the sport in England at all. This book tells the story of women’s football in England since its 19th-century inception through pen portraits of its trailblazers. The game might have once been banned because of its popularity – find out about the subversive women who kept organising their teams and matches despite the prohibition, who broke barriers and set records – the legends of the game who built the foundations of the stage upon which today’s stars flourish. 'At what feels like a pivotal moment, Carrie’s forensic research and depth of knowledge make her the perfect person to guide us through the constantly changing landscape of women’s football' - Kelly Cates, TV presenter
'Uthman ibn 'Affan: Legend or Liability? (Makers of the Muslim World)
by Heather N. Keaney&‘Uthman ibn &‘Affan (d. 656) was an early convert to Islam and the third successor to the Prophet Muhammad. As caliph he established the first Islamic navy, consolidated the text of the Qur&’an, and expanded the Arab empire. His opponents, however, accused him of being corrupt and questioned his legitimacy. After twelve years &‘Uthman&’s troubled caliphate ended in revolt. His death at the hands of rebels led to civil war and contributed to the eventual split between Sunni and Shi&’i Islam. In this volume, Heather Keaney examines the life and legacy of the controversial caliph.
'Ware Danger (The Patrick Dawlish Mysteries)
by Gordon AsheBritish sleuth Patrick Dawlish is about to discover that during World War II, there&’s as much intrigue on the home front as on the front lines. The big, broken-nosed Patrick Dawlish has a history of matching wits against those who have outwitted the police. It&’s practically become his chosen vocation when he&’s not serving in Her Majesty&’s armed forces. Dawlish&’s requests to serve overseas have been rejected since he&’s far too valuable in England. This is how he finds himself on a train to London with friends Ted Beresford and Timothy Jeremy—three junior officers with the same mysterious orders to meet in the same mysterious room. Someone is attempting to sabotage negotiations between Ireland and England—and delaying much-needed wartime supplies. Within a day of reaching London, Dawlish and his men are faced with fires, explosions, and a shocking political assassination. And now, at least two countries will learn that it&’s never smart to have Dawlish in the mix when he begins to take matters personally . . .
'We Ain't Got No Drink, Pa': A Little Girl's Struggle to Survive in the Slums of 1920s South East London
by Cathryn Kemp Hilda Kemp'We ain't got no drink, Pa.' I trembled as I spoke. Then somewhere inside me I found the anger, the courage to answer him back.'We don't have no grog cos you drank it all!'I knew he was going for me tonight, so I reckoned I might as well go down fighting after all.Growing up in the slums of 1920s and 30s Bermondsey, Hilda Kemp's childhood was one of chaos and fear. Every day was battleground, a fight to survive and a fight to be safe. For Hilda knew what it was to grow up in desperate poverty: to have to scratch around for a penny to buy bread; to feel the seeping cold of a foggy docklands night with only a thin blanket to cover her; to share her filthy mattress with her brothers and sisters, fighting for space while huddling to keep warm. She knew what it was to feel hunger - not the impatient growl of a tummy that has missed a meal; proper hunger, the type that aches in your soul as much as your belly. The eldest of five children, Hilda was the daughter of a hard drinker and hard hitter as well. A casual dockworker by day, a bare-knuckle fighter by night and a lousy drunk to boot, her pa honed his fists down the Old Kent Road and Blackfriars, and it was Hilda or her ma who bore the brunt of them at home. This is the powerful and moving memoir of Hilda's childhood growing up in dark, filthy, crime-ridden Bermondsey; a place where you knew your neighbours, where you kept your eyes down and your ears shut as defence against the gangs at war in the streets. It's a time when days were spent running wild down the docklands, jumping onto barges and stealing coal, racing through the dank back-streets of east London like water rats, dodging the milk cart or the rag-and-bone man.And out of this bleak landscape emerges a brave, resilient young girl whose life is a testament to the power of love and good humour. Moving, dazzling and sombre by turns, once opened this brilliant, seductive book will not let you rest.
'We Ain't Got No Drink, Pa': A Little Girl's Struggle to Survive in the Slums of 1920s South East London
by Cathryn Kemp Hilda Kemp'We ain't got no drink, Pa.' I trembled as I spoke. Then somewhere inside me I found the anger, the courage to answer him back.'We don't have no grog cos you drank it all!'I knew he was going for me tonight, so I reckoned I might as well go down fighting after all.Growing up in the slums of 1920s and 30s Bermondsey, Hilda Kemp's childhood was one of chaos and fear. Every day was battleground, a fight to survive and a fight to be safe. For Hilda knew what it was to grow up in desperate poverty: to have to scratch around for a penny to buy bread; to feel the seeping cold of a foggy docklands night with only a thin blanket to cover her; to share her filthy mattress with her brothers and sisters, fighting for space while huddling to keep warm. She knew what it was to feel hunger - not the impatient growl of a tummy that has missed a meal; proper hunger, the type that aches in your soul as much as your belly. The eldest of five children, Hilda was the daughter of a hard drinker and hard hitter as well. A casual dockworker by day, a bare-knuckle fighter by night and a lousy drunk to boot, her pa honed his fists down the Old Kent Road and Blackfriars, and it was Hilda or her ma who bore the brunt of them at home. This is the powerful and moving memoir of Hilda's childhood growing up in dark, filthy, crime-ridden Bermondsey; a place where you knew your neighbours, where you kept your eyes down and your ears shut as defence against the gangs at war in the streets. It's a time when days were spent running wild down the docklands, jumping onto barges and stealing coal, racing through the dank back-streets of east London like water rats, dodging the milk cart or the rag-and-bone man.And out of this bleak landscape emerges a brave, resilient young girl whose life is a testament to the power of love and good humour. Moving, dazzling and sombre by turns, once opened this brilliant, seductive book will not let you rest.
'We Ain't Got No Drink, Pa': Part 1
by Cathryn Kemp Hilda KempWe Ain't Got No Drink, Pa can either be read as full-length eBook or in 3 serialised eBook-only parts.This is PART 1 OF 3.'We ain't got no drink, Pa.' I trembled as I spoke. Then somewhere inside me I found the anger, the courage to answer him back. 'We don't have no grog cos you drank it all!' I knew he was going for me tonight, so I reckoned I might as well go down fighting after all. Growing up in the slums of 1920s and 30s Bermondsey, Hilda Kemp's childhood was one of chaos and fear. Every day was battleground, a fight to survive and a fight to be safe. For Hilda knew what it was to grow up in desperate poverty: to have to scratch around for a penny to buy bread; to feel the seeping cold of a foggy docklands night with only a thin blanket to cover her; to share her filthy mattress with her brothers and sisters, fighting for space while huddling to keep warm. She knew what it was to feel hunger - not the impatient growl of a tummy that has missed a meal; proper hunger, the type that aches in your soul as much as your belly. The eldest of five children, Hilda was the daughter of a hard drinker and hard hitter as well. A casual dockworker by day, a bare-knuckle fighter by night and a lousy drunk to boot, her pa honed his fists down the Old Kent Road and Blackfriars, and it was Hilda or her ma who bore the brunt of them at home. This is the powerful and moving memoir of Hilda's childhood growing up in dark, filthy, crime-ridden Bermondsey; a place where you knew your neighbours, where you kept your eyes down and your ears shut as defence against the gangs at war in the streets. It's a time when days were spent running wild down the docklands, jumping onto barges and stealing coal, racing through the dank back-streets of east London like water rats, dodging the milk cart or the rag-and-bone man. And out of this bleak landscape emerges a brave, resilient young girl whose life is a testament to the power of love and good humour. Moving, dazzling and sombre by turns, once opened this brilliant, seductive book will not let you rest.