Rebel Writers: The Accidental Feminists: Shelagh Delaney * Edna O'Brien * Lynne Reid Banks * Charlotte Bingham * Nell Dunn * Virginia Ironside * Margaret Forster

A Taste of Honey by Shelagh Delaney was a play that changed women's writing in Britain and started a movement that would change women's lives forever. It was followed by Edna OBrien,Lynne Reid-Banks,Charlotte Bingham,Nell Dunn,Virginia Ironside,and Margaret Forster,who were united in their determination to shake the traditional concepts of womanhood. Celia Brayfield's biographical study tells their story for the first time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 25 July 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the vibrant city of London in 1958, a remarkable play by a mere 19-year-old redefined the realm of women's writing in Britain, sparking a transformative movement that would forever alter the lives of countless women. The play, titled "A Taste of Honey," was the inaugural work of a remarkable succession of young women who fearlessly and candidly chronicled their lives, captivating the world with their raw honesty. These trailblazing writers, including Shelagh Delaney, Edna OBrien, Lynne Reid-Banks, Charlotte Bingham, Nell Dunn, Virginia Ironside, and Margaret Forster, defied the oppressive norms of sexism, inequality, and prejudice, challenging the very definitions of writing and writers. Their work, which bypassed the esteemed London cultural elite, reached audiences of millions worldwide, paving the way for profound social changes and laying the foundations of second-wave feminism.

These young women, hailing from diverse backgrounds, were united in their unwavering determination to shatter traditional notions of womanhood through novels, films, television, essays, and journalism. Their anger, akin to the Angry Young Men, was matched by a constructive spirit, offering innovative perspectives on living and loving in the future. While they never intended to form a literary movement, their impact was undeniable, inspiring countless other writers to follow in their footsteps.

In this captivating biographical study, acclaimed author Celia Brayfield unveils the untold story of these remarkable young women for the first time. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Brayfield brings their journey to life, shedding light on their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering commitment to truth-telling. "The Young Women Who Changed the World" is a testament to the power of literature and the indomitable spirit of women who dared to challenge the status quo. It serves as a reminder that history is not solely shaped by the actions of men, but also by the courage and determination of women who refuse to be silenced and who pave the way for a brighter future.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 235 x 170 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781448217496