Early reading memories include a fascination with the illustrated Grimms' fairy tale Jorinde and Joringel, which sparked repeated visits to the library. Childhood humor was greatly influenced by the Jennings series, which evoked laughter through comedy of embarrassment. The profound impact of Emile Zola's Germinal on understanding social injustices occurred after leaving school. The Bell by Iris Murdoch inspired a desire to write by demonstrating the expansive possibilities of fiction. A later reading of Mrs Dalloway revealed deeper appreciation compared to initial reactions and reflected changes in perspective over time.
My earliest reading memory is of an illustrated Grimms' fairy tale called Jorinde and Joringel, focusing on a quest for a flower with special powers.
The Jennings books by Anthony Buckeridge made me laugh uncontrollably, conveying the comedy of embarrassment despite their prep school boy focus.
Emile Zola's Germinal exposed me to the brutal hardship of 19th-century coal miners' lives, jolting me out of my middle-class certainties.
The Bell by Iris Murdoch revealed that a novel could explore profound themes, influencing my desire to become a writer.
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