Maria Johnson

Such a great read on so many levels. As someone born in the late 60's I really enjoyed the snapshot it provided of growing up just after the war, in a time when England was finding its feet socially. The clashes in Brighton between the mods and Teddy boys was so insightful. I loved Gordon's description of the music scene of that time, she was actually there, watching the Beatles, how amazing. But on another level, its very poignant of our times, as she then describes her journey to becoming a Belly Dancer, something far outside her culture, and social status. She gives an account of breaking free of what is expected of you, to follow your dreams. Of swimming against the tide, and actually making it to your own paradise island. Loved this book, and would recommend it.