Voices of Canning Town

This fascinating compilation of reminiscences by the inhabitants of Canning Town spans the period from before the First World War up to 1945. It is told in the contributors'' own words, which have been taped and transcribed, and the extracts are complemented by over 100 photogrpahs drawn from the family albums of the speakers themselves.

All aspects of old East End Life are covered here, including the influence of the docks, the shops and street traders, the schools and entertainment. Notable events are also recalled, culminating in the catastrophe of the Second World War, to which a whole chapter is dedicated. Above all, this collection captures the sense of community and identity which underpinned Canning Town before the war, allowing the reader to share in the contributors'' daily lives, work, joys and sorrows.

This book is an invaluable record of a way of life that has now vanished. It will doubtless provoke nostalgia in those who remember pre-war Canning Town and awaken interest in how things used to be for younger generations.