Customer Reviews

Girl on the Wall

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This book is beautifully set, the pictures of the tapestry are very well done especially with the complete pull out view at the back. The stories to each tapestry circle are informative, factual and entertaining. Not only is it a personal record with private snippets of her life, it is also a good view into social history of the time. The book would appeal to almost all ages as Jean Baggott takes us from the 1940's through to the early 2000's - there is something here that most people will be able to relate to. Jean Baggott tells her stories in a friendly, chatty manner, it's incredible that in the tapestry and book she can take us from "make do and mend" of the 1940's through to Pink Floyd !!. The tapestry detail though is stunning, the intricate design and work in miniature is extraordinary. I like the fact that it is one of those books that you can just dip in to when the mood strikes.

I was really excited when this book was published. As a needleworker, I obviously enjoy books on the subject and stories of how needlework has enhanced the lives of others is something I find interesting.

I greatly admire Jean Baggott. I think she accomplished a massive undertaking in this project and did a terrific job. I think the tapestry was a form of therapy for her, and few people start a "new" life as late in the game as she was able to do.

The story of her life translates very well, as long as you understand the time and place she's writing about. It is amazing the different attitudes and approaches to everyday life people took decades ago versus today. I doubt her life was an easy one, but she has handled its tale with great dignity.

My only issue is the "jumpiness" of topics. Even within each circle of the tapestry, the topics can be varied and she will suddenly veer from one point of discussion to one completely unrelated. Her ability to segue is not well-developed, and that could be because this was an "amateur" piece of writing from a woman who was not privileged enough to seek higher education until much later in life. This being said, it should not prevent anyone who has an interest in needlework particularly (or an interest into the life of another human being throughout a fascinating period of history in general), from enjoying this work.