Private autobiography

Every LifeBook is unique in its way, with its own qualities and character, but even among all these highly individual stories, Jeannette Meyers’ story of her parents’ lives is distinctive.

The stories of some of our authors are full of intentionality, of plans made at an early age that define the rest of their lives. For others, the way is winding or punctuated with reversals, new directions, surprises, or unexpected opportunities. For Barbara Freedman, meeting her husband and embarking on her career were matters of serendipity, or maybe even fate, but they certainly weren’t planned.

Jimmy Russo (Giacomo) was the son of a Sicilian immigrant who arrived in Great Britain in 1952 carrying a single suitcase, and he left school with an O level in woodwork. Over the next 50 years, thanks to his hard work, energy, and drive, he went on to build a multi-million-pound salad-growing and distribution business, was awarded a Cavalieri by the government of Italy, became chair of the professional soccer club, Watford FC, and travelled the world.

Bob’s motivation for writing his memoir was so his sons could read his full life story. As Bob says, “I don’t need a legacy – they are my legacy.”

John is a born storyteller. Helping him put all his memories and his knowledge into print was a joyful and fascinating experience.