12 Comments
User's avatar
Jules's avatar

It sounds like a fantastic read. Connie really does sound like a great character, and I loved the bit about Duke! Clearly a writer who could inject lovely bits of comedy into the grimmest circumstances.

How people got through the Blitz I'll never know; the resilience of human beings is unbelievable. Thanks for a great recommendation.

Expand full comment
Harry Watson's avatar

Much enjoyed reading this Sarah and the book's cover photo struck a chord. It's from 1937 and is of Charing Cross Road, close to Tottenham Court Road, by Wolfgang Suschitzky. I came across his work after discovering he was cinematographer on a favourite film of mine 'Get Carter'. Agree with you re the Blitz and at least there is a moving memorial to those killed in the east end of London. Unfortunately I can't attach my photo of it to this.

Expand full comment
Di Clarke's avatar

My copy just arrived, bought after reading this, and I shall be watching the film which is available free on YouTube! Thanks.

Expand full comment
Sarah Harkness's avatar

I hope you enjoy it. I think I'm going to write a bit more about it this week. And do look out for Connie, I think she is one of the great comic creations!

Expand full comment
jodi {diaryofaladytraveler}'s avatar

Someone raved about this book to me years ago, and I had completely forgotten about it. Thank you for the reminder! (And I'm the worst at remembering books that I've read...particularly details. It always blows my mind when people can talk with authority about books they read years ago!)

Expand full comment
Jon's avatar

Your piece on "London Belongs to Me" by Norman Collins is a captivating revisit. You brilliantly capture the vibrant essence of 1940s London and the Macmillans’ crusade. Your enthusiasm and insightful analysis make this a delightful read for both newcomers and fans of the novel. Thank you for shedding new light on this classic!

Expand full comment
Sarah Harkness's avatar

Thank you Jon! It was lovely to revisit

Expand full comment
Etta Madden's avatar

I should add for clarity that I have forgotten about books and reviews in my past!

Expand full comment
Etta Madden's avatar

So I loved that you forgot you had read and reviewed this book! And I am glad that you reread and shared a version here. Sounds like a fantastic piece of fiction.

Expand full comment
laura thompson's avatar

So interesting, thank you Sarah!

As I was reading I realized that I'd seen the film years ago (can't resist Alastair Sim) but the book sounds much better.... I love this kind of incidental social history. Beyond price.

Expand full comment
Deborah Vass's avatar

I knew nothing of Norman Collins and was amazed to hear of his contribution to ATV, my local station growing up. It sounds like a terrific book, thank you.

Expand full comment
Julie Dee's avatar

My appetite is suitably whetted. Thank you :)

Expand full comment