“Singapore’s history has been told many times but it has usually been framed by men and the stories are mostly of and about men. This book of memories by Irene Lim covering nine decades of her life, spent in Singapore except for three wartime years in Malaya, gives us the perspective of that period as seen through her day-to-day life and that of her extended family. It offers a tantalising view of what women felt and experienced about the world around them at that time. We begin to appreciate how history is not only made by dramatic national events but by the stuff of daily existence. This book brings richly to life the social and cultural half of history that for too long has been forgotten, untold or ignored, giving us a more holistic picture of our human, and Singapore, story. The life course of this resilient and creative woman also shows us the promise of longevity can be fulfilled by leading an independent life of purpose and productive activity. I really enjoyed reading the book. I could hardly put it down until I reached the end.” — Dr. Kanwaljit Soin, orthopaedic and hand surgeon, and advocate for improving the lives of women and the elderly.

1. Lim, Irene. 2. Singapore ? History ? Personal narratives. 3. Malaya ? History ? Personal narratives.