Dear Justine, sorry I missed it, and didn't reply in time. I was off having a great time somewhere as usual. I'm sure it was fun. I'm sorry you still haven't got anything better to do...get a life! But anyway , good luck with it. Val Stacey (8 October 2004)
A very courageous Lady. Edwina (10-10-2004)
'Tilting at Windmills' gives a fabulous insight into council protocol and even highlights other ways in which desired objectives can be successfully achieved. The book can be obtained through your local library and provides a handy reminder as to how innocent members of the community can be rendered so ineffective when 'bullied' by the political machine. A good read for all school governors, especially those without political interest who, like myself , really do serve to represent the best interests of our children and the wider local community. Nigel Hooley, Stretford
From Wikipedia , the free encyclopedia. Justine Williams is a Manchester-based author. Tilting at Windmills ( 2004) is a lightly comedic revision of the Don Quixote story wherin a failed headmaster provides a reasonable Sancho Panza to Justine's Don. Unknown author
I have just finished reading 'Tilting at Windmills' A tale of corporate bullying and could not put the book down. The education people and the politicians at Trafford Town Hall were wicked in the way they hounded a good headteacher out of the borough. Why did we not get to hear about this and about the outcome or the money spent on witch-hunting one of our headteachers. I am absolutely amazed that they got away with it and what were the Labour controlled council thinking of? I admire the author for being brave enough to tell the story and she was a councillor for 12 years! I went to Lostock School 30+ years ago, so know the school and area well - Justine Williams is spot on. How could this have been allowed to happen? What else has been hidden from us? Why has a homegrown author getting so little publicity? I bought my copy through Amazon after a friend told me about it. But I now know I could have had it directly from the author (much cheaper) who lives in Urmston. God these weak-kneed labour politicians we had in Trafford in 2002. Has anybody else read the book? Sheila. Urmston
It is very rare to see someone so impassioned to write a book about their trials and tribulations with Trafford Local Authority when they were a Governor at Lostock High. I thoroughly enjoyed the book especially as I know some of the key protagonists! A must for anyone in education or politics in Trafford.
Amanda Hume 12-11.2004
I was intrigued by the discussion about this book and so I got myself a copy and began to read. Its fascinating stuff for anyone interested in what goes on in the corridors of power. Could not put it down. I recommend it to anyone living in Trafford. Joan - 18.1.2005
BEFORE Christmas, I saw an article on the internet about the author of 'Tilting at Windmills', who was wondering why her book has not been circulated in the local libraries. I had to pay £1 for the reservation and as, yet have had no notification. I ordered the book at Flixton library, approximately seven-eight weeks ago. I have never had this problem before. Is there a blockage on the book? Has anybody else had the same experience? Lynn, Davyhulme (28 January 2005)
Given the fact that Trafford M.B.C (or indeed any of those named) have not, or don't appear to have taken any form of legal action either, against the author personally or wider actions to prevent publication of this particular book, would suggest that this particular tale of corporate bullying holds much truth and merit. If this is the case, why has not anybody been brought to account? Maybe the current administration should ask the previous administration for a full and frank explanation. And if they do not get satisfactory answers, we could always demand a public enquiry. However, I fear this is more than a book, its' a way of life in some circles. The MAFIA springs to mind. Terry (15-12-2005)
It is an excellent read you will enjoy it - it is contemporary and the author was not afraid to name names and make reference. The head in the book was Mr Sweeney. He was head at Lostock 1997-2002. The poor man was witch hunted by the LEA and the politicians for trying to do an excellent job for 'our kids' in a dilapidated school - the LEA withheld vital moneys due to the school until after the Ofsted investigation. Then the authority came to 'rescue' the school, which was already mending despite the lack of finances and threw all the money they could lay their hands on. The head who had been suspended on full pay for over a year and found not 'guilty'- he was then paid off and made to sign a gagging order. Where did Trafford MBC find the money ??? Shirley M (October 2005)
How can I get hold of this book via the author? Sue (10 October 2005)
I have read the book. It just shows what Labour will do to retain power - Robert - (22-10-2005)
I am in the process of reading your interesting book and quite candidly, one wonders about the efficacy of local government. Frank G - 15 May 2006
I found the Berwick Press website today, and your book. I am a teacher in Trafford. I look forward to reading your book, as soon as I can. I have experience of the bullying you mention. I was just glad to find a book that deals with Trafford LEA and schools. And bullying/lack of support from the LEA. I just wanted to drop you a line and thank you, as it made me feel less isolated. - 27 May 2006 |
