Hyman Shapiro

This book was clearly written for use in schools. It is, therefore, written in simple, straightforward language but still has a story to tell.

If I had my way, every young person in Britain would read this. We forget our history at our peril and, we live in an era when the events of yesterday are re-written today. One of the strongest reasons for the retention of the book format in these days of e-readers and on line information, is that a book freezes the views of the moment whilst computer based information is reviewed as our perceptions change.

Keir Hardy dragged the working man from the gutter and created a working class who could respect themselves and this book gives us some uncomfortable reminders of what life was like before the rise of the unions and the Labour Party. It is pleasing that this is not used as a political tract. We are not, as we so often are in this type of literature, pushed to believe that the workers ownership of all means of production and a reallocation of property are a necessary part of the struggle for equality.

If you are not aware of Hardy's life story then, this is a wonderful first read.… (mais)