Alan Johnson's childhood was not so much difficult as unusual, particularly for a man who was destined to become Home Secretary. This book tells the story of two incredible women: Alan's mother, Lily, who battled against poor health, poverty, domestic violence and loneliness to try to ensure a better life for her children; and his sister, Linda

Paperback edition of this highly acclaimed and poignant memoir from one of our foremost politicians. It evokes his poverty-stricken childhood in 1950s Notting Hill, and the influence of his mother and older sister in his upbringing. It is set against the backdrop of the changing face of London in the 50s and 60s, and is written with a spirit of humour and openness which lifts it well above the grim catalogue of a misery memoir