A weave of mostly joys, some sorrows, and a sprinkling of earthy humor during a muddled childhood. I was orphaned in 1935 at the age of two, and my maternal grandmother became my legal guardian. The main thrust of my childhood memories focuses on home and school life, as well as childhood activities and travel in England’s North East, particularly in County Durham. Of course, the major conflict of World War II was a prevalent factor that affected everyone. Being six when the war started and twelve at the end, observations and experiences of that period are no doubt of interest to a wide readership. Generally, in the telling of my personal recollections, I have also relayed information regarding the working-class fabric prevalent during the thirties and forties. Another facet of the story concerns my attempts to cope with and solve personal problems and inadequacies. Consequently, there is, at times, a reflective, searching tone to the narrative. The final chapter describes the preparation for immigration to Canada and the trip by plane and train to Vancouver, British Columbia. Everyone’s story is unique, but I believe I have managed to portray a wide-enough spectrum to interest all age groups.
