6A Blackstock Gardens

The Butlers of Scottie Road is an autobiographical installment from the author of Planet Young, exploring Liverpool with stoic wit and brio. Gerrid, the seventh son of a seventh child, is born in the seventh month and is the youngest to the matriarchal May. Childhood is filled with observation and imagination, but resilience must prove the most life-formative skill to comprehend communal and familial, repetitive, and grief.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 11 September 2023
Publisher: Flapjack Press

Within the bustling tenements of the notorious Scottie Road, nestled amidst the bustling dockyards and the heart-wrenching back-kitchen sink dramas, the Butlers navigate the vibrant city of Liverpool with a stoic wit and a brimming brio. For Gerrid, the seventh son of a seventh child, born in the seventh month, and the youngest to the matriarchal May, childhood is a tapestry woven with the threads of observation and imagination. Yet, as the days unfold, it becomes painfully evident that resilience must emerge as the most vital life skill, empowering him to comprehend the intricacies of communal and familial relationships, the repetitive cycles of grief, and the ever-shifting tides of existence.

This captivating first autobiographical installment from the author of Planet Young, a captivating novel that graced the screens of BBC TV's Between the Covers, offers a poignant glimpse into the life and experiences of Gerrid. Through his vivid storytelling, the reader is transported to the bustling streets of Liverpool, where the Butlers, a family of seven, navigate the complexities of life with unwavering determination and a deep sense of connection.

Gerrid's childhood is a tapestry of vivid memories and introspection. From his earliest days, he is captivated by the world around him, his eyes keenly observing the nuances of human behavior and the intricate details of the surrounding environment. His imagination runs wild, and he weaves fantastical stories and adventures that transport him to far-off lands and ignite his curiosity.

However, as Gerrid grows older, he realizes that the world he once knew is rapidly changing. The tenements of Scottie Road, once a vibrant community, are now plagued by poverty and social unrest. The Butlers, like many others, face the daily struggles of survival, navigating the treacherous waters of unemployment and poverty.

Despite the challenges they face, the Butlers remain a tight-knit family, relying on each other for support and love. Gerrid's mother, May, is a fierce matriarch who holds the family together with her unwavering strength and determination. She instills in her children a sense of pride and resilience, teaching them to face adversity with grace and to never give up on their dreams.

Gerrid's journey through childhood is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of family. He faces numerous obstacles and setbacks, but his unwavering spirit and determination help him to overcome them. He learns to adapt to new situations, to find beauty in the simplest of things, and to cherish the moments of joy and connection that life offers.

As Gerrid approaches adulthood, he faces the daunting task of carving his own path in a world that seems determined to keep him down. He dreams of a better life, of escaping the cycle of poverty and finding success and fulfillment. But the road ahead is not easy, and he must navigate through a sea of uncertainty and rejection.

Yet, Gerrid's resilience and determination remain unwavering. He refuses to let the circumstances of his upbringing define him or limit his potential. He works hard, studying and honing his skills, and eventually finds his way to a brighter future.

Through his autobiography, Gerrid shares his journey with the world, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who are often overlooked and marginalized. He sheds light on the struggles and hardships faced by many families in Liverpool, and he inspires others to rise above their circumstances and pursue their dreams.

In conclusion, Memories Were People Too is a captivating and poignant autobiography that offers a glimpse into the life and experiences of Gerrid, the seventh son of a seventh child. Through his vivid storytelling and unwavering resilience, Gerrid teaches us the power of resilience and the importance of family. His journey is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and to find hope and fulfillment in the face of uncertainty.

Weight: 220g
Dimension: 130 x 200 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838470326