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Ann Kennedy Smith's avatar

Now, why aren't Lords (& Ladies') debates always like that? What a touching story, and Jim Callaghan is a hero for getting that amendment through. I did love seeing those Ahlberg illustrations again in the context of a real-life woman's experience! So detailed and endearing, but also accurate.

Victoria K. Walker's avatar

This is a delight, thanks, Sarah. The social document from a busy mother reminded me very much of a conversation I had with an aunt of mine many years ago. With quite a large family herself, she detailed their rigorous daily timetable, and disciplined routine and children's chore schedule. They even had regular fire drills. Thanks again. I look forward to your new book being published!

Milly Jenkins's avatar

What a good, and exhausting-sounding, account of a parent's day. I've just been reading about Lisa Owens' new novel, Natural Disaster, which follows the day in the life of a mother. She recently wrote in the New York Times about picture books that tell the story of a family's day, with exhausted-looking parents who are just about managing.

Linnesby's avatar

This is marvelous! That debate!

Alison Baxter's avatar

Lovely piece in so many ways. The harassed mother could easily be one of the readers of Woman’s Friend in the novels by A J Pearce. Glad your book is going well.

Sarah Harkness's avatar

I kept thinking of her too…might do a link…..

Lesley's avatar

Thank you, that was really a wonderful read.

Katy Sammons's avatar

Have missed you, but I'm glad you're making good progress on your book!

Jon (Animated)'s avatar

Always brilliant your pieces!

Wendy Wright's avatar

As always, a very entertaining & informative article. I have missed your writings but hoped that you were busy with your new book, which I so look forward to reading.

Jules's avatar

The service Audrey did for GOSH is incalculable. Amazing to have spotted that and been instrumental in doing so much good in the world.

Didn't Peter Jay look like his mum? Great photo.

Brilliant read, thank you. The gruelling experience of that mother...and she had help! 😒

David Perlmutter's avatar

The earlier Canadian novel "Sarah Binks" by Paul Hiebert has a similar concept and conceit to Shields' novel.