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‘I began my life as I shall no doubt end it: among books. In my grandfather’s study, they were everywhere; it was forbidden to dust them except once a year…�


Bought many moons ago at University but I don’t remember reading it…doesn’t mean I didn’t however😉. Tony Manser the prof at Southampton was a Sartre scholar. Must have bought the book to impress him…that failed.

Divided into 2 sections. Firstly, Reading then Writing. An autobiography but only covering the years until Sartre was 10 years old. With the early death of his father Sartre and his mother live with his grandparents. His grandfather having a strong influence on his life.

Glimpses of an early life. Reading and writing adventure stories much to his grandfathers disgust with his poor spelling being pointed out. Coming second in a writing competition and refusing to go back to school. Awareness of his diminutive size and lack of good looks.

An enjoyable read bringing back memories of my childhood…that bore no relationship to his.