Synopsis:
Arthur Kippax hates his name, but there's nothing he can do about it. He's a child of the 1950's, growing up in the 1960's in Sheffield - the Steel City. His parents are down-to-Earth, working class, as are most of his friends, but he will eventually go to Grammar School, learn to stand up for a principle, sit on his own chair and benefit from a good State Education. He will also learn that life is never fair, that God does not suffer little children but causes little children to suffer, in different and often insidious ways. The music of "The Swinging Sixties" becomes a soundtrack for his life, loves and adventures.
Review:
I found this book on an increasing pile of reads that my daughter had to review. From the moment I picked this book up I found it impossible to put down.
I was born in the late 60's and grew up in a family with mom, dad, step brother and later on a baby sister. Close relatives lived around the corner and were there to pick up the pieces when my dad passed away when I was ten. Ok that's enough about me ,but I mention the close family ties as these are few and far between in todays society.
This book is written beautifully, and quite often I found myself in tears as I too felt the emotion that the main character Arthur felt. Without giving away the story, and believe me I could write for ever about this book as I loved every chapter. The musical quotes made me laugh and gave me greater enthusiasm to read more and more.
The story is one of childhood, love and loss which will touch your heart in the most endearing way .I was totally engrossed and could relate to dads brylcream and the faint whiff of Old Spice as he would dab it on to take nan to the weekly session of bingo.
The irony is amazing, talking about the proverbial Larry who is always a happy chap to the reference to Lou Kemia and Roo Bella, each used in a way to show the innocence of a child who is affected by the loss of his first love. A truly brilliant read full of humour, the occasional ripe language which only adds to the read but is essential in order to truly immerse yourself into.
I'd happily give this book a 5/5, I can only hope that there is a second book being written to follow this fabulous read.
Thank you, Paul Richard Scott, for the memories, and for the tears of sadness and laughter
Having been abroad for a couple of weeks, I missed this review when it first appeared, but must confess being thrilled to discover it on my return. It is an honour to have such praise heaped upon my work, encouraging me to write more, and continue the tale of Arthur Kippax. A second installment - "The Least We Can Do Is Wave" - is currently being written, which I will forward on completion, hoping that it will match the quality of its predecessor. I would also be grateful and proud if a copy of this review were to appear alongside the book on Amazon. Again, my sincerest thanks for praising it so highly.
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