A Dancer in Wartime by Gillian Lynne

*****
A Christmas pressie that I couldn't put down!
Gillian Lynne (for me at least) is famous for her choreography of ALW musicals, particularly Phantom of the Opera (as my all time favourite musical!!) but I was pretty ignorant about her background and early dancing career.  This autobiography charts her childhood and early ballet career at Sadler's Well through the war, taking in the tragic death of her mother, the trials of London in wartime and her nomadic existence between loving relatives and ballet schools. 
I loved this book, as a huge ballet fan and for the years (mis) spent struggling in ballet classes, it was a enthusiastic and loving tribute and Lynne's passion for the art form really come through.  The famous names scattered throughout and the photographs used make it even more special.  A must for all theatre and dance fans and I hope there's a follow up!

Diplomatic Incidents by Cherry Denman

****
A bright, breezy and delightfully indiscreet trawl through the perks and trials of being a diplomatic wife.
Cherry Denman has lived in many countries over the past twenty five years and has a wealth of anecdotes of people, housing, food and toilets.  It's a quick and amusing read, with some amusing illustrations and I loved it!

Seagulls in the Attic by Tessa Hainsworth

****
Second book by this author detailing her downsize from high powered executive for "The Body Shop" to Cornwall postie in a picturesque seaside village.  It's more of the same really...but a cosy, easy read, that makes such a huge change seem really appealing.
Mainly consists of a variety of small episodes about animals, gardening and misunderstandings where a uptowner (even in her second year in Cornwall) gets things badly wrong. Not a lot happens, but the scenery is lovingly described and she and her family obviously enjoy their new life.
A very pleasant read and gives you lifestyle envy, but her fascination with foraging remains a total no for me!