This is a memoir of highs and lows,
Of sky’s the limit
High as trees where George would perch
And basement depths,
Heaven!
Where he’s into hinges, nails, screws.
The dedication page
So poignant,
Elicits a sigh of things to come.
The first paragraph of the prologue
Brings the first of many tears.
You learn Hughes’ background
Not just as “daughter of”
She wants plants, pets, a house of her own.
An early love of animals, of yearning for security
Are hallmarks of the young dealing with death,
The loss of someone close.
A parent.
Follow the antics of George
From chick lovingly tended to and spoiled
With all manner of delightful treats,
Worms, mince, later Schmackos, cheese, milk.
He acquires canine sisters, by name
Mouse, Snickers and Widget.
You will happily fill with pride
As by a baby’s first stepping
When George learns to fly.
In spite of pain,
Hughes is superwoman
Renovating her home, mixing cement, digging,
Planting, painting, writing.
While George dances, preens and shows off
Stealing random objects
Such as red rubber bands,
Terrifying Mary the cleaner
And annoying The Ex.
All this and more you’ll learn reading
George: A Magpie Memoir
A story with many tears
Both of author and audience
But also of hope, love, joy
And blooms of new beginnings.
George: A Magpie Memoir, Frieda Hughes (Profile)
Price: £16.99/£21.99 audiobook. Info: here
words RHONDA LEE REALI