Of Laundries and Rabbits

About the Book

This autobiography in two parts by husband and wife presents a remarkable insight into life in Britain during the last century, especially the thirties and early war years, and is a valuable and readable source of information for generations to follow! Ellen's account of growing up amidst the hardships of life in a home wedged between a mainline railway and a canal in Kensal Town where money was earned taking in laundry is really quite dramatic and riveting. The poignant details regarding the funeral of a young girl are very moving. On the other hand we have John Waddell's delectable dry humour as he looks back on the pros and cons of growing up in the Scottish countryside around Auchterarder, complete with vivid glimpses of country lore from rabbits, mushrooms and makeshift golf courses!

About the Author

The authors were separated temporarily when John Waddell was posted elsewhere, but in 1943 he was back in London. They were married without great ceremony at Paddington registrar?s office. It was a marriage that lasted fifty-three years, and brought great happiness. Members of the Caledonian Society to which John Waddell belongs know him to be a very keen gardener, with a garden the envy of all. He is also a very accomplished poet.