Not just beautifully written, with all the power and grace of one of our leading English poets - but made the more remarkable by insights into the history of the poetic life in this country since the middle of the last century. Here also find travels among Russian poets under Soviet rule - and the story of Feinstein's own marriage, as poet met scientist in the days when people fell in love and stayed in love, through thick and thin.It both illuminates, and moves to tears. -- Fay Weldon
A fascinating life, full of extraordinary characters. * The Financial Times *
This wonderful book is so much more than the memoirs of a poet. * The Telegraph *
A vivid evocation of a life dedicated to poetry and writing * The Independent *
Entertaining and touching slices of life. -- Piers Plowright * Camden Review *
A delight and an inspiration for women, Jews and other outsiders who have something important to communicate. * Jewish Chronicle *
As she illustrates with bracing honesty, Feinstein lives by the words of one of her key biographical subjects, Anna Akhmatova - 'Who can refuse to live their own life?' - however creative, painful and loving that life may be. * TLS *
Beautifully written, evocative and emotionally enlightening, Feinstein's anecdote-filled account of her life, its joys and sorrows and professional and personal successes is enticing. * The Good Book Guide *
