The book chronicles the formative years of a prominent figure in the British arts world. Sir Roy Strong recounts the story of his social origins and the development of his deep passion for English culture and history. He details his childhood in a North London terrace, portraying himself as a shy, solitary child with a melancholic disposition who, in his teenage years, immersed himself in painting Elizabethan miniatures and Shakespearean set designs.

This memoir offers an intimate look into the early life of Sir Roy Strong, a figure well-known for his extensive career in the British arts. The narrative focuses on his formative years, revealing the personal background and influences that shaped his lifelong dedication to English culture and history. The book is expected to appeal to readers interested in biography, art history, and the personal journeys of influential cultural figures. It provides insight into the development of his artistic sensibilities from a young age.