Despite never marrying, Margaret Gardiner was known as “Mrs Bernel” as partner of scientist and activist John Desmond Bernal, though she herself was an accomplished British artist and political activist.

Well connected with other writers, artists, and creative professionals in her Hampstead neighbourhood, she swam in the Heath’s famous ponds well into her 90s. This charming and thoughtful collection is a mix of shapshots and memoir, as well as short stories short stories.

London: Free Association Books, 1988. First edition. 280 pages. 23.5 x 15.5 x 2.5. Hardback. Near fine book in very good jacket.