A Guardian Best Book of the 21st Century Winner of the Prix Femina Etranger 2020 Following on from the critically acclaimed Things I Don't Want to Know, discover the powerful second memoir in Deborah Levy's essential three-part 'Living Autobiography'. 'I can't think of any writer aside from Virginia Woolf who writes better about what it is to be a woman' - Observer _________________________________ 'Life falls apart. We try to get a grip and hold it together. And then we realise we don't want to hold it together.' _________________________________ 'I just haven't stopped reading it . . . it talks so beautifully about being a woman' Billie Piper on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs 'It is the story of every woman throughout history who has expended her love and labour on making a home that turns out to serve the needs of everyone except herself. Wonderful' - Guardian 'Wise, subtle and ironic, Levy's every sentence is a masterpiece of clarity and poise . . . a brilliant writer' - Daily Telegraph 'A graceful and lyrical rumination on the questions, "What is a woman for? What should a woman be?"' - Tatler 'Extraordinary and beautiful, suffused with wit and razor-sharp insights' - Financial Times *** Have you ever wondered how fascinating the world can be when it opens through the pages of a book? Reading is not just a routine activity; it is an endless adventure into imagination and knowledge. Reading sharpens the mind, broadens perspectives, and enriches vocabulary. It is a gateway to a world beyond ourselves—limitless and full of possibilities. Set aside a specific time to read every day. Whether it’s reading before bed or taking a moment in the morning, a reading habit can be built through consistency. Choose books that match your interests and literacy level. Start with books that suit your preferences and reading ability. Find a quiet and comfortable place to read. Adequate lighting, a comfortable chair, and a little background music can create a better reading experience. Keep notes or a journal about the books you have read. Write down your thoughts, impressions, and the lessons you gain from them.