Well-written historical novel about workers' and women's rights
The story takes place in Clydebank in 1911. The sewing machine factory is the workplace and center of life for most local residents. Ellen, Sadie and Bridget also work here. They love their work and yet their world falls apart when working conditions deteriorate in favor of efficiency. Ellen and Sadie decide to do something and initiate a strike, which thousands of workers join. Bridget, on the other hand, struggles with her beliefs and not least with her husband Malcolm, who is part of the management team. There is a falling out between the sisters Ellen and Bridget. But Bridget makes an unexpected acquaintance who shows her new paths. The protracted strike deprives many strikers of their livelihoods. Therefore, ways must be found together to stem the growing desperation and poverty.
This historical novel provides insight into the early 20th century struggle for workers' rights. This impressively shows what a few can achieve. Especially since they are women of the time. The descriptions of the protagonists' successes and defeats were touching. Their absolute will to achieve improvements for the workers and the efforts they put in to achieve this. An absolutely recommendable book about the fight for rights for workers and especially women at a time when this was anything but self-evident.