A review by samdalefox
Dreams From My Mother by Dame Elizabeth Anionwu

emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.25

I was prompted to read this for Black History Month (in the UK this is October), as I will have the opportunity to interview Dame Elizabeth Anionwu at my place of work. 

I went in knowing a little about her more recent public health work, but nothing about her as a person. I found the book wonderful for three reasons. 
  1. Anionwu's life achievements are remarkable to read about, she really has lived a wonderfully full life, become confident in knowing who she is, and made a positive impact to so many people around the world. I am thankful for her service, education, and courage as it has demonstrably improved British people's lives.
  2. I found this completed a missing piece in my understanding of the Mixed-Race Black British experience. Having read 'Mixed/Other' last year (Natalie Morris, 2021) who is similar age to me. Reading Anionwu's experience from the 'boomer' generation, born in 1947, filled in cultural historical gaps for what is was like growing up as a mixed working class girl/young woman during the 50s-70s. [I still can't believe she was friends with Walter Rodney. Walter Rodney!!!!]
  3. I read this first as an audiobook. I simply enjoyed listening to her talk. It was a joy to hear her own emotions in telling her story. 

I am immensley looking forward to meeting her next month. I have two other colleagues who will also be interviewing Elizabeth. I would like to focus my questions to her on politics and the intersection of class and race, considering her activism within health and her being self described 'radical left'.


I also think this review from a GoodRead reviewer is well put:

This is the personal history of one very inspiring lady's life but the reason she has been encouraged to share it with the world in this way is because there are elements that resound with many others for different reasons.

Whether you had experience of illegitimacy, racism, poverty, a difficult home life, finding your confidence in life or having to rail against the establishment to get ahead, you will find something in here touches a nerve.

Despite Elizabeth's conclusion that her success was driven by rage, that isn't the what draws you into this tale. There's not ranting or soap boxing. Instead it is her warmth, quiet humour and good spirit that shines through and keeps you turning the pages. 

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