Andrea Ashworth

Set in 1970s Manchester, ONCE IN A HOUSE ON FIRE tells the harrowing true story of three sisters and their mother, from the point of view of the eldest sister Andrea. They are a close-knit, loving family but are forced to battle with poverty, depression, and terrifying abuse at the hands of two stepfathers. Andrea, a sensitive and highly observant child, witnesses and suffers unbearable cruelty yet refuses to give into despair. Ultimately this is an empowering account of survival and hope, as Andrea forges a future beyond the violent world of home.

Once in a House on Fire

Once, in a House on Fire

Eimear McBride

Set in 1970s Manchester, Once in a House on Fire tells the true story of three sisters and their mother, a close-knit and loving family forced to battle with poverty, abuse and the effects of depression. Beautifully written and deeply inspiring, with a new afterword by Andrea Ashworth, it is a book that will stay with its readers for ever.

Als unser Haus in Flammen stand

When Andrea Ashworth's childhood memoir was published in 1998 it left critics stunned; it became an international bestseller and continues to move readers around the world. Set in grim 1970s Manchester, Once in a House on Fire tells the true story of three sisters and their mother, a close-knit and loving family forced to battle with poverty, abuse and the effects of depression. What makes Ashworth's memoir truly astounding is that her tale of hardship is so beautifully written, so compellingly told, so funny and endearing. Ultimately this is one of the most life-affirming stories around; a bright and sympathetic book that should be read by everyone.

Andrea Ashworth

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