Born to Jewish immigrant parents living in the notorious Gorbals of Glasgow, Ralph Glasser vividly recounts his hardships and childhood troubles. His story is poignantly and intelligently told, avoiding the temptations of bitterness and nostalgia, and reveals an evocative and deeply powerful portrait of life in the Gorbals.
Moving from his early years, through a brief education and time working in a barber's shop and a clothes factory, Glasser's tragic tale ends in triumph with his acceptance into Oxford - a lasting testimony to the dedication and commitment of a very talented man.