When I first started writing Life in the Square, I didn’t set out to create a grand story.
I wanted to capture the small moments — the ones that make you smile for no reason, or
remind you of a neighbour, a relative, or that friend who always turns up with cake when
you need it most.
The characters in this book aren’t based on anyone in particular, but they’re a little bit of
everyone I’ve ever met: people who make the best of what they’ve got, who laugh even
when things go wrong, and who believe a kettle and a good chat can solve nearly
anything.
The inspiration for the square is based on Victoria Square, in Ancoats, and holds a special
place in the city’s history as one of the earliest examples of municipal social housing in
Britain. Opened in 1894, it was designed to replace overcrowded slum housing with bright,
modern flats, each with running water, proper sanitation, and shared courtyards for
community life. Built in red brick and forming a large square around a central courtyard, it
became home to hundreds of working-class families and remains a landmark of
Manchester’s social reform movement. More than a century later, Victoria Square still
stands as a symbol of the city’s pioneering spirit — proof that good homes and good
neighbours can change lives.
I’ve always been fascinated by the everyday heroism of ordinary life — the humour tucked
into the quiet corners of our days, the kindness that goes unnoticed, and the way
communities hold each other up, even when the walls creak a little.
The Square is really a love letter to that — to growing older with spirit, to friendship found
over fences, and to finding joy in the small stuff.
If you’ve ever lived somewhere with paper-thin walls, nosy neighbours, or a lift that makes
suspicious noises, you’ll recognise something here.
And if you haven’t, you’ll wish you had.
So here’s to life’s ordinary magic: to the burnt toast, the bingo nights, the laughter that
echoes down the corridor, and the people who make every imperfect day worth sharing.
Put the kettle on and welcome to The Square.
