Set in grim 1970s Manchester, Once in a House on Fire tells the true story of three sisters and their mother, a close-knit and loving family forced to battle with poverty, abuse and the effects of depression. What makes Ashworth's memoir truly astounding is that her tale of hardship is so beautifully written, so compellingly told, so funny and endearing. Ultimately this is one of the most life-affirming stories around; a bright and sympathetic book that should be read by everyone.

'This is a brilliant book. Brilliantly written, brilliantly thought, brilliantly remembered . . . Ashworth has written an extraordinary memoir; the only pity is that she had to live it to make it' SCOTSMAN