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A review by katykelly
Lady in the Van by Alan Bennett
5.0
I wanted to read Bennett's book ahead of seeing the film. I knew what to expect from reading his previous short stories, though this of course is a true account of his dealings with an eccentric lady who parks her van in his drive for several years.
The writing is wry and amusing, the leading lady eccentric but rather endearing. Bennett uses his diaries to recount their conversations and his feelings.
It is only a short account, but very entertaining and even rather moving by the close. Alan Bennett doesn't try to mock his 'guest', he clearly felt protective as well as amused by her, but she was always going to be somebody he had in mind as a perfect character for his writing. Her story, revealed to Bennett at the end, is quite sad.
Very much enjoyed this, and can see Maggie Smith embodying the role perfectly. A story that probably couldn't happen now, with Social Services taking over much more quickly, I would guess.
The writing is wry and amusing, the leading lady eccentric but rather endearing. Bennett uses his diaries to recount their conversations and his feelings.
It is only a short account, but very entertaining and even rather moving by the close. Alan Bennett doesn't try to mock his 'guest', he clearly felt protective as well as amused by her, but she was always going to be somebody he had in mind as a perfect character for his writing. Her story, revealed to Bennett at the end, is quite sad.
Very much enjoyed this, and can see Maggie Smith embodying the role perfectly. A story that probably couldn't happen now, with Social Services taking over much more quickly, I would guess.