Vera Brittain: A Life

Vera Brittain's biography is the most comprehensive and authoritative life of one of the most remarkable women of her time. It reveals her semi-detached marriage, friendship with Winifred Holtby, and relationships with her brother Edward and fiancé Roland Leighton, killed in the First World War. Shortlisted for the Whitbread Prize, the NCR Non-Fiction Prize, and the Fawcett Prize.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 592 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Vera Brittain, acclaimed author of Testament of Youth, is the subject of a definitive biography. This captivating book, with a new introduction by Mark Bostridge, delves into the life and legacy of this remarkable woman.

Kate Figes, in the Independent on Sunday, praises the biography as "riveting and authoritative." Figes highlights the honesty, precision, and intelligence displayed in the writing, describing it as a "fascinating portrait." Natasha Walter, in the Guardian, also commends the book, stating that it succeeds triumphantly in capturing the essence of Vera Brittain.

Vera Brittain is widely recognized for her poignant autobiography, Testament of Youth, which immortalized a lost generation during the Great War. This biography, penned by the authors, presents the most comprehensive and authoritative account of Brittain's life. Drawing from unpublished papers and firsthand knowledge, they create a candid and sympathetic portrayal of the writer, pacifist, and feminist. The book uncovers the truth about Brittain's semi-detached marriage, her close friendship with Winifred Holtby, and the profound impact of the deaths of her brother Edward and fiancé Roland Leighton, who were killed in the First World War, on her memories throughout her life.

Shortlisted for prestigious awards such as the Whitbread Prize, the NCR Non-Fiction Prize, and the Fawcett Prize, this biography offers a profound insight into the life and work of Vera Brittain. It sheds light on her remarkable journey, from her childhood in Birmingham to her involvement in the war effort and her advocacy for peace and women's rights.

In conclusion, this definitive biography of Vera Brittain is a must-read for anyone interested in history, literature, and the remarkable lives of women. It provides a comprehensive and insightful portrayal of Brittain's life, offering a deeper understanding of her achievements, struggles, and enduring legacy.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349015019