Old Baggage by Lissa Evans
Published by Black Swan, December 2018
I chose this book to read on International Women’s Day (8 March) and, although not its target group, I really wish it had been around when I was in my early teens. It’s a fictional story of a small group of women who fought for the right to vote and is a moving and imaginative way to share some of the history and achievements of that period.
The central character is Miss Matilda (Mattie) Simpkin, as determined a woman as ever took part in the Women’s Suffrage Campaign. But now she’s looking for a fresh challenge. Unfortunately not everyone shares her enthusiasm and it’s that enthusiasm which is eventually her downfall.
Set in and around Hampstead in the period shortly before and after the death of Emmeline Pankhurst, this inspiring book covers not just the fight for women’s right to vote but the fight for better education, better jobs, more independence and greater acceptance of difference.
Woven into the plot is the legacy of WWI, its impact on both men and women and the fight against a rising tide of fascism. There’s also the story of Mattie’s devoted friend, Flea, and the importance of finding your true family.
A moving story reminding us what future generations owe to a group of women and men. As one reviewer said of this book “it’s a rattling good yarn”.
