The Grocer's Boy: A Slice of His Life in 1950s Scotland
By Robert Murray ISBN: 978-0-9955897-2-8 Trade Paperback 336 Pages The 1950s in Carnoustie: a beautiful seaside town on the Tayside coast, and a place which was to see rapid social and technological advancement during one of the fastest-moving periods of cultural change in recent British history. In The Grocer’s Boy, Robert Murray relates his account of an eventful childhood in post-War Scotland, drawing on fond memories of his loving family, his droll and often mischievous group of friends, and the many inspirational people who influenced him and helped to shape his early life. Join Robert on his adventures in retail as he advances from his humble beginnings as a delivery boy for the famous William Low grocery firm, all the way to becoming the youngest manager in the company’s history at just nineteen years of age. Read tales of his hectic, hard-working time as an apprentice grocer — sometimes humorous, occasionally nerve-wracking, but never less than entertaining. From Robert’s early romances and passion for stage performance to his long-running battle of wits with his temperamental delivery bike, The Grocer’s Boy is a story of charm and nostalgia; the celebration of a happy youth in a distinctive bygone age. With special thanks to James (Peem) Murray for his sketch artwork which illustrates The Grocer's Boy. |
Find out more about The Grocer's Boy at the Extremis Publishing website. |
Hear Robbie talk about The Grocer's Boy on an episode of the Extremis Publishing Podcast. |
I enjoyed your book and sharing your memories of life in the 1950s. Many people have good and interesting memories of their youth, but it takes real talent to write about them in such an interesting and entertaining way.
Margaret Brown, Scotland
Absolutely loving the book. I love how Robbie's passion for Westhaven comes across so clearly. I really like the way it is written and how much detail there is when describing some of the jobs he had to do.
Alison Hovell, Scotland
It was a lovely read, and brought back lots of memories. Would definitely recommend the book to anyone from Carnoustie during that era.
Liz Wilson, Scotland
Your passion, enthusiasm, incredible work ethic and attention to detail is all conveyed with such accuracy and honesty. It's been a while since I've read such a charming and entertaining book. I feel enveloped by the characters and the little nuances of your interactions. At one point, I laughed out so loud at the antics... absolutely precious indeed!
Maliga Govender, South Africa