Books
by Alan Bennett
|
The Lady in the Van |
Easily read in one sitting, this is Alan Bennett at his best. Originally published in 1989 and later included in 'Writing Home' it has since been adapted as a stage play and recently come to a wider audience as a film, both starring Maggie Smith. It tells the true story of the eccentric 'Miss Shepherd' who lived in a van parked in Bennett's drive. Touching, sad, humorous and much more, I found the discoveries made after her death most revealing and poignant.
(Mary Standing - bwl 79 Winter 2016) |
|
|
Uncommon Reader, The |
In this brilliantly humorous little book the author imagines how the Queen, on a search for her dogs, comes upon the local travelling library parked outside the Palace kitchens. She gets into conversation with the librarian and Norman, kitchen skiffy and keen borrower. The Queen borrows a book, becomes an obsessive reader and, with Norman's help, devotes all possible time between and during her duties, to this new interest. One hilarious episode after another.
(Jeremy Swann - bwl 44 February 2008) |
|
|
Untold Stories |
When I reviewed Bennett's 'Writing Home' (bwl 37) I said I hoped there would be more to follow, and there was (published in 2005 but only just discovered by me). Another lovely, fat book of memories - his parents' marriage, his extraordinary aunts - his diaries and miscellaneous writings, including some wonderfully irreverent art criticism. His critical intelligence, sensitivity, good sense and humour had me constantly saying 'Ah Yes!'. Again, I'd love more!
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 71 Winter 2014) |
|
|
Writing Home |
This is a rich miscellany from a richly miscellaneous man. From memories of childhood to the account of the old woman camping in his garden for fifteen years, from his diary of working with Gielgud to book reviews and funeral addresses, Bennett is perceptive, intelligent and above all sane as well as funny, pin-pointing absurdities and hypocrisies but also evoking people and places with affection and insight. I hope there'll be more to come.
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 37 December 2006) |
|
|
|
