The Sunday Times Memoir of the Year, MAGGIE AND ME by Damian Barr, is our April Non-Fiction choice: discuss the book and win a free copy here

[TillyBookClub]

The death of Margaret Thatcher happened to coincide with the publication of this brilliant memoir, giving it extra wind in its sails. But this is not exactly a Maggie book. It is a deeply moving tragicomedy about growing up different in a small town in the Eighties. Out of his horrific childhood Damian Barr has managed to create a joyful, funny book that is as uplifting as it is shocking. Damian is a lanky, geeky, gay kid growing up in a tough Scottish community based around the heavy industry that Maggie is about to destroy. When he is 8 years old, his mother leaves his steel-worker father to live with Logan, a violent abuser. They eventually escape, but Damian's mother turns to drink, leaving him pretty much abandoned. Yet Damian still manages to survive all this with a deft wit and a belief that he can escape to a better life. His use of irony is beautifully subtle, and throughout the book his courage and resilience are astonishing. Not only is he an extraordinarily funny writer, he is also hugely admirable in his lack of bitterness or self-pity. A life-enhancing, positive and inspiring read, not to be missed.

Bloomsbury have 50 copies to give to Mumsnetters: to apply for your free copy, please fill in your details on the Non-fiction book of the month page.

If you’re not lucky enough to bag one of the free books, you can always get your paperback or Kindle version here.

If you get a free copy, we do expect you to come and and tell us what you think. So please feel free to discuss the book here throughout the month and look forward to hearing your thoughts…

[mjmooseface]

There doesn't seem to be a place where you can apply for a copy on the page? It says the giveaway ends on Tuesday 15 April but there is no form to fill out!!

[VicWelton]

Please may I have a copy of this? I am not sure where to fill in my details though!!

[VicWelton]

I have just realised that there is no form to apply for this book.

[GoingToBedfordshire]

I would love a copy of this please. Thank you.

[thecatfromjapan]

Hello there.

I'd love to apply for a copy - and I'm pretty certain I'll finish this and post my comments quickly: it sounds just right for what I'd really like to read.

Am posting here because I couldn't see where to ping a request to you at MNHQ.

[Jilko]

I would love a copy of this book please. It looks like one I'd enjoy. Thanks!

[Looby4]

I'd also love a copy please, but can't see the form which normally appears?
Thanks

[sbroadhurst]

i would love a copy too but can't ind where to enter details

[alialiath]

Either I'm blind or going mad, but I can't find a way to apply for a copy of what sounds to be a fantastic read. Can you please add me to a list of the applicants. Thanks

[Mariehorton1981]

Same as everyone else, I can't find any form

[urkidding]

Please may I enter to apply for the book too.

[adeledarby]

Hello

I couldnt find a form to fill out but would like to apply for this book

Cheers

[Lorraine967]

Like the others, I would love a free copy but can't find the form to apply!

[aramo]

Hi could you also add me to the giveaway list. Thanks

[Khaly]

I'd love a copy please

[Southeastdweller]

Another one who'd love a copy but can't see the form!

[Deaconlinda]

I was hoping to apply hoe a book but no form to complete.

[tino69]

Hi, I would love to apply for a free copy of one of these books however I can't find any form to fill out.

Thanks

[OneStepCloser]

Waiting patiently for the form

[arniesidd]

Me too.....

[elvisfan1]

I would love to read this, please add my name to the list. thanks

[StampyIsMyBoyfriend]

Marking place for when form appears!

[BiscuitCrumb]

Marking place so I can apply...

[Queazy]

I'd love a copy too please!

[CountBapula]

Me too!

I loved Damian Barr's book about quarter-life crises. Got me through some tough times in my 20s :)