In this intriguing and very personal book, part diary, part memoir, PD James considers the 12 months of her life between her 77th and 78th birthdays - a 'time to be in earnest' as Dr Johnson said about the comparable moment of his very different life two centuries ago. In recording the events, thoughts and reflections of her present, Baroness James has found herself simultaneously remembering the past of her remarkable career. This record - including 16 pages of photographs - of a twelvemonth in a life of creativity and public service, told with honesty and perception, will enthral aficionados of detective fiction. It will also appeal to the wider public of those who themselves have lived through the turbulent years of the 20th century.