It was in the hot, clammy early hours of Thursday 8th July, that I read the September Book of the Month. The book is 'Behind the Smile My Story' by Lisa Potts. Lisa was the Nursery Nurse who shielded her children from the blows of a man carrying a machete, by a strange co-incidence, on 8th July, 1996.
The Book opens with an account of Lisa's childhood and early life including how she came to work at St Luke's Infant School. It is interesting to learn that one of Lisa's first memories is that of protecting her little friend, Clare. She feels that this, coupled with her love of dolls, marked the beginning of her passion for children.
The middle section looks into detail at the events preceding the attack - the Nursery Childrens' Teddy Bear's Picnic. A 'taster' day for little Ahmed, Lisa remembers assuring his mother that he would have a great time - "That short sentence will never leave my mind. Soon I would be carrying round the guilt that this little boy was going to be scarred for the rest of his life."
This section also includes details of the actual attack where one is left in stunned disbelief at the horror inflicted on the little children, their parents and staff.
I remember hearing Lisa interviewed on Radio 4's Today programme. She had mentioned briefly the flashbacks that she was experiencing. However, it is on reading this book that the severity of these become clear, that even certain smells trigger bad memories.
In the third and final section, Lisa writes about coping with the media, the ordeal of the Court Case, The George Medal and her steps along the road to recovery.
Throughout this book, Lisa's very caring personality shines through. Her great love for children, her sound faith and outstanding courage are evident. There is an openness and honesty in her writing which will not fail to move all readers. (I got through nearly a whole box of tissues!) Autobiographies are usually my last choice but this is one that should not be missed.
Behind The Smile My Story by Lisa Potts (Hodder & Stoughton) £6.99 ISBN 0-340-72148-0
written by Lynn Winter
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page last updated 22 AUGUST 1999