It Takes a Lifetime to Become Yourself

Kay Carmichael was born in 1925 and died in 2009. After an impoverished upbringing in Glasgow’s East End, she became a social worker, university teacher, wife of an MP, a member of the Scottish Office Advisory Committee for setting up Children’s Panels, a peace activist (for which she was imprisoned), and an advisor for Harold Wilson’s policy Unit at No. 10 Downing Street. It takes a Lifetime to Become Yourself is published by Scotland Street Press.

"A true gem of a book; starting from Kay's difficult childhood, right through to her death; autonomous, against the grain, brave and on her terms. A story of righteousness, fighting for the underdog, never backing down when one feels principled about injustice in the world. A wonderful read, heartbreaking and inspiring in equal measure."