Loved the book. It was very hard to find,though. Read about Oscae Wilde through the eyes of his son who was 7 years old when he last saw his father. He yet recalls accurately particularities of this great writer in a way that nobody else can write. He did a great job that gives credit to Oscar Wilde the man, the father and loving husband. The book although written in the sixties is back to life thanks to the grandson Merlin Holand. I wish Merlin would do justice to Oscar Wilde take the name Merlin Wilde. It's about time.
Insight into a childhood ruined by 'well meaning' relatives. Time and place are very strong. The author is very witty and apparently inherited his dad's talent for writing. I sort of learned a bit about Wilde in the process of reading this book, I guess it was about the son that is the book's purpose and it's made me curious to find out more. Rupert Everett's film taught me a lot I might rewatch that having read this book.
I always was fascinated of the writings of Oscar Wilde, and his public life as well..This book, by his son, is a wonderful book for anyone interested in the life of Oscar Wilde!!
I read this book before I ever read a biography of Oscar Wilde. I knew the outline of the story but not all the facts. This books illustrates how Wilde's trial effected his family. For instance, the auction of Wilde's belongings to pay costs included his wife's books and his children's toys. Holland stands up for both his mother and his father, and focuses on pre-trial and post-trial life for the family. He includes childhood stories, the fight of the sword-cane with Cyril is told wonderfully. Holland does write some wonderful descriptions of places and things. A good book if you are a fan of Wilde or want to know more about the time period.