More about the title later in the blog as I recount some of our experiences at the Stroud Book Festival. I thought First I would round off my previous blog about Remembrance Day. I did watch Jackson’s film on Sunday night and the pictures that were restored were superb. It did show what a pointless and costly war it was. The conditions were appalling and it was good to hear authentic voices of the time talk about their terrible experiences. I also caught the end of Dan Snow’s programme on shell shock last night and it seems our leaders still don’t look after our soldiers well-very moved by the man who had been to Afghanistan  twice when it was obvious he had PTS from his first tour.

The other things we saw at the Festival was Alan Johnson (former Home Secretary) talking about music but recalling much of his formative years in the 50’s. He came over both as amusing, talented and compassionate man. We also saw Tim Dee talking about Gulls and particularly their relationship with rubbish tips and how this is changing. He had a wide knowledge of literature as well that enhanced his talk, considering the topic it was fascinating.