Jane Sherwood

I liked school, apart from having to stand up and recite times tables, important dates or a poem, I got my knuckles wrapped a few times. My first project when I was 10 years old, was "The Life of Winston Churchill". I got an A and a place at Rosebery Grammar School for Girls. I thought I worked hard, but the teachers didn't. I got thrown out of French, Chemistry Physics, History and English Literature. I was misunderstood - I still know how to rewire a 13amp plug! I have always loved a project and liked all subjects that involved drawing: Geography, Biology, Physics! I was demoted to Domestic Science, Cookery and Needlework, where I excelled. I achieved reasonable "O" level results and was allowed to take three "A" levels, Art, Textiles and Dress and one academic subject, English Literature! OMG I was actually quite good at all three and got a place at teacher training college, but it did not bode well so I left. I then tried floristry, waitressing, cleaning, clerking, shop assisting, anything and everything, did draw the line at pole dancing. After marrying and becoming a mum, I studied City & Guilds Textiles and went on to peripatetic teaching in adult education, along with operating a soft furnishings business. It was now time for some serious study, a Fine Art degree. My first major artwork was a cupboard that held 5 generations of my family in glass jars. The research for this was triggered by the discovery that my great grandfather was a basketmaker and wherryman which inspired my first biographical novel, "The True Tale of Charlie Plant." I have looked back ever since. I have written a few short stories, three biographical novels and numerous essays relating to my own experiences and those of my family, both past and present. I write for my grandchildren and in doing so hope to offer broad appeal to anyone interested in social history. My style is gentle and easy to read, perfect for the reluctant reader both teenage and adult alike. If I can encourage some interest and impart a little knowledge to an untapped audience, I will be happy.