BOOK BRIEF

Below Stairs

Margaret Powell
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Below Stairs

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2012

Book Brief

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Margaret Powell

Below Stairs

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

212

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
British Literature

Biography
Setting

England • 1920s

Topic
World History

Food
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Below Stairs by Margaret Powell is a memoir detailing the experiences of a young woman working as a domestic servant in early 20th-century England. It offers an insightful look into the class divide and daily life of servants during this era, highlighting the challenges and social dynamics they faced.

Informative

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Humorous

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.8

16,134 ratings

55%

Loved it

34%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Margaret Powell's Below Stairs offers a vivid, firsthand account of early 20th-century domestic service. Readers appreciate its authentic voice and engaging anecdotes. Some critics find it lacks depth in exploring broader historical context. Overall, it’s valued for its personal perspective and nostalgia, appealing to those interested in social history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Below Stairs?

Readers who enjoy Below Stairs by Margaret Powell are typically fascinated by early 20th-century British social history, particularly from a working-class perspective. Fans of Downton Abbey or Gosford Park may find its memoir-like insights appealing, akin to those of The Butler's Guide by Stanley Ager.

3.8

16,134 ratings

55%

Loved it

34%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

212

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Genre
British Literature

Biography
Setting

England • 1920s

Topic
World History

Food
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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