Through the Archway

Through the Archway: Memoirs of Mouse, Day Boy at Penly Grange, is a vivid portrait of an English prep school in the 1950s and a story of close friendship and bitter rivalry. When, after almost fifty years, Timothy Moss (nicknamed Mouse) unexpectedly meets the notorious school bully Burton, he is surprised to find his memories of his old school being challenged. Now on the brink of retirement, he sets out to record his version of the education and eccentric characters at Penly Grange Preparatory School for Boys in the 1950s. Not only a book about entertaining and unforgettable personalities, this semi-autobiographical novel is a compelling study of memoir writing which explores the deep attachments of childhood, the highs and lows of growing up, and the healing and insight that can be gained from revisiting the past. Suitable for all adults and children over 13. Revised edition December 2007.