Finding Peggy: A Glasgow Childhood

Meg Henderson

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Glasgow in the 1950s was a deprived and often violent place. Meg Henderson was part of a large family, and when the tenement block in which they lived collapsed they had to move to the notorious Blackhill district where religious sectarianism and gang warfare were part of daily life. Yet despite appalling conditions , there was warmth, laughter and a remarkable spirit, and Meg's mother and her Aunt Peggy, both idealistic and emotional women, shielded her from the effects of her father's heavy drinking.

A hopeless romantic, Peggy searched for a husband until late in life and then endured a harsh, unhappy marriage. When she died horrifically in childbirth her death devastated the family and destroyed Meg's childhood. Only later, after the death of her own mother, was Meg able to discover the shocking facts behind the tragedy.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Glaswegian Identity: The book delves into the author's deep connection to her hometown of Glasgow, examining the city's unique culture, history, and sense of community.

  2. Working-Class Life: Henderson provides insight into the working-class experience in Glasgow, depicting the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people living in a post-war industrial city.

  3. Family Dynamics: The memoir explores the author's family relationships, including her complex and often tumultuous bond with her mother, Peggy, who is central to the narrative.

  4. Childhood Memories: Henderson vividly recounts her childhood experiences, from playing in the streets of Glasgow to attending school and navigating the challenges of growing up in a working-class neighborhood.

  5. Social Change: Against the backdrop of Glasgow's evolving social landscape, the book reflects on the broader societal changes that occurred during the mid-20th century, including shifts in politics, economics, and gender roles.

  6. Sense of Place: Through detailed descriptions of Glasgow's streets, landmarks, and neighborhoods, Henderson evokes a strong sense of place, capturing the essence of the city and its significance in her life.

  7. Personal Growth: The memoir traces the author's journey of self-discovery and personal growth, as she reflects on her childhood experiences and the impact they had on shaping her identity and worldview.

  8. Loss and Resilience: Henderson grapples with themes of loss and resilience, including the untimely death of her father and the challenges of coping with grief and adversity at a young age.

  9. Nostalgia and Reflection: "Finding Peggy" is imbued with a sense of nostalgia as the author looks back on her childhood with both fondness and introspection, revisiting memories and moments that have stayed with her over the years.

  10. Universal Themes: While rooted in Henderson's personal experiences, the memoir touches on universal themes such as family, love, resilience, and the passage of time, making it relatable to readers from diverse backgrounds.

Language English
ISBN-10 0552141852
ISBN-13 9780552141857
No of pages 320
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Corgi
Published Date 01 Sep 1994

About Author

Author : Meg Henderson

1 Books

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