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AT THAT TIME by Robert Lawson Kirkus Star

AT THAT TIME

by Robert Lawson

Pub Date: Oct. 3rd, 1947
Publisher: Viking

There's a slight difference of opinion here, but majority rules, and we are placing this as autobiography for young adults. Far Away and Long Ago by W.H. Hudson is beloved of young people, not only because of the wonders of nature he describes, but because of the sensitive revelations of a boy growing up. Robert Lawson, while he is simpler, more direct, has something of that quality of remembering, with no vestige of the condescension of an adult reviewing half-memories of youth. There is no subtle psychological interpretation, but simply recall of some of the joys, the fears, the agonies, the shyness, the frustrations, the achievements. He remembers vividly disappointments in discovering that things imagined were not actual; his complete block at school when he refused to confess his bafflement over long division, and chose to skip school instead; the recurrent round of games and sports, the curious timing year after year of marbles, kites, and so on; thunder storms; joys and sorrows of shopping with his mother; a despised bowler hat; too long postponed long trousers; childhood cruelties to anyone different or foreign; distorted humor and practical jokes; first love. Charmingly done — poetic, compassionate, understanding. The growing pains of youth- which youth will appreciate.