What do you think?
Rate this book
The Biscuit Girls
Ivy, Dulcie, Barbara, Ann, Dorothy and Jean all had different reasons for applying to work at Carr’s biscuits, but once they had put on their overalls and walked through the factory gates they discovered a community full of life, laughter and friendship. To those who didn’t know, the biscuit factory that towered over Carlisle might look like just another slice of the industrial North, a noisy and chaotic place with workers trooping in and out at all hours. For the biscuit girls it was a place where they worked hard, but also where they gossiped, got into scrapes and made lifelong friends. Outside the factory walls there might be difficult husbands or demanding kids, and sometimes even heartbreak and tragedy, but they knew there would always be an escape from their troubles at Carr's. Some, like Barbara, only applied because she needed the extra cash, until things got a bit easier at home. Her supervisor cross examined her about who would be looking after the kids while she was at work, but let her have the job. Like many of the women who joined up ‘temporary’ Barbara went on to stay at Carrs for 32 years.Beginning in the 1940s, these heartwarming and vividly-remembered stories have all been told by the women themselves to Hunter Davies.
- GenresNonfictionHistory
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 3, 2014
90 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Hunter Davies
132 books70 followersEdward Hunter Davies OBE is an author, journalist and broadcaster, and a former editor for the Sunday Times of London. He is the author of numerous books, including The Glory Game and the only authorised biography of the Beatles. He was born in Johnstone, Renfrewshire, to Scottish parents. For four years his family lived in Dumfries until Davies was aged 11.
His family moved to Carlisle in northern England when Davies was 11 and he attended the Creighton School in the city. Davies lived in Carlisle until he moved to study at university. During this time his father, who was a former Royal Air Force pay clerk, developed multiple sclerosis and had to retire on medical grounds from a civil service career.
Davies joined the sixth form at Carlisle Grammar School and was awarded a place at University College, Durham to read for an honours degree in History, but after his first year he switched to a general arts course. He gained his first writing experience as a student, contributing to the university newspaper, Palatinate, where one of his fellow student journalists was the future fashion writer Colin McDowell. After completing his degree course he stayed on at Durham for another year to gain a teaching diploma and avoid National Service.
He lives in London.
His family moved to Carlisle in northern England when Davies was 11 and he attended the Creighton School in the city. Davies lived in Carlisle until he moved to study at university. During this time his father, who was a former Royal Air Force pay clerk, developed multiple sclerosis and had to retire on medical grounds from a civil service career.
Davies joined the sixth form at Carlisle Grammar School and was awarded a place at University College, Durham to read for an honours degree in History, but after his first year he switched to a general arts course. He gained his first writing experience as a student, contributing to the university newspaper, Palatinate, where one of his fellow student journalists was the future fashion writer Colin McDowell. After completing his degree course he stayed on at Durham for another year to gain a teaching diploma and avoid National Service.
He lives in London.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 14, 2015
The Biscuit Girls is the true story of biscuit factory Carrs of Carlisle, started by businessman Jonathan Dodgson Carr in 1831, told through the eyes of six of its former workers – Ivy, Dulcie, Barbara, Ann, Dorothy and Jean.
Ivy, the oldest of the girls, started working at Carrs in the years following World War II, and remained there for 45 years. During her time there, she eventually helped to train some of the other women featured in the book. Each chapter is devoted to one of the women (all feature in a number of chapters, which eventually bring their lives up to the present day), and as well as looking at their work at the factory, the book also delves into their personal lives.
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be a thoroughly entertaining and interesting read. Although all of the women featured had different reasons for joining Carrs, and came from varied backgrounds, they all seemed to have enjoyed their jobs, and the camaraderie and friendships that came with it. Each chapter incorporated some of the history of Carrs, and there was plenty of information about the area, and the wider biscuit industry. Working there brought different rewards for each woman (Barbara for instance worked there purely for the money, while Ivy wanted to work there having seen other women going to work there and thinking how smart they looked in their uniforms).
The personal aspect of the book made it an interesting and relatable read, more so than a straightforward biography of Carrs would have done. I thought it was interesting how just as Carrs passed down through generations of the family, you would find many generations of local families all going to work there. It is clear that the factory was a major source of employment for many people living in the area, and by and large the Carr family treated their workers well. Although labour-saving machinery and health and safety legislation have brought about inevitable changes in the industry and at Carrs, it appears that many of the old ways of working still remain, as the later chapters explain. (Carrs is still in operation although it is now part of the United Biscuits Group, owned by McVities. One of Carrs most popular and famous products is Carrs Water Biscuits, which still sell vast amounts today.)
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone familiar with the Carlisle area (although I really enjoyed it, and have never even been to Carlisle), or anyone who is interested in the lives of women in the 20th century. It’s engaging and clearly well researched – and will definitely make you want to sit down with a cuppa and a biscuit!
Ivy, the oldest of the girls, started working at Carrs in the years following World War II, and remained there for 45 years. During her time there, she eventually helped to train some of the other women featured in the book. Each chapter is devoted to one of the women (all feature in a number of chapters, which eventually bring their lives up to the present day), and as well as looking at their work at the factory, the book also delves into their personal lives.
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be a thoroughly entertaining and interesting read. Although all of the women featured had different reasons for joining Carrs, and came from varied backgrounds, they all seemed to have enjoyed their jobs, and the camaraderie and friendships that came with it. Each chapter incorporated some of the history of Carrs, and there was plenty of information about the area, and the wider biscuit industry. Working there brought different rewards for each woman (Barbara for instance worked there purely for the money, while Ivy wanted to work there having seen other women going to work there and thinking how smart they looked in their uniforms).
The personal aspect of the book made it an interesting and relatable read, more so than a straightforward biography of Carrs would have done. I thought it was interesting how just as Carrs passed down through generations of the family, you would find many generations of local families all going to work there. It is clear that the factory was a major source of employment for many people living in the area, and by and large the Carr family treated their workers well. Although labour-saving machinery and health and safety legislation have brought about inevitable changes in the industry and at Carrs, it appears that many of the old ways of working still remain, as the later chapters explain. (Carrs is still in operation although it is now part of the United Biscuits Group, owned by McVities. One of Carrs most popular and famous products is Carrs Water Biscuits, which still sell vast amounts today.)
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone familiar with the Carlisle area (although I really enjoyed it, and have never even been to Carlisle), or anyone who is interested in the lives of women in the 20th century. It’s engaging and clearly well researched – and will definitely make you want to sit down with a cuppa and a biscuit!
May 24, 2020
An interesting look at love, life & hardship in a northern factory from the view of six women who worked at Carr's of Carlisle, the "Home of Biscuits".
Although of a different generation to these women & never having worked in a factory there's still quite a lot that resonated with me - I guess working life presents some situations that don't change with the passing years or different environments.
However, the bit that really jogged a memory for me wasn't work related! Barbara may have been at grammar school a couple of decades before me but I remember us all having to kneel down in the hall to make sure or skirts were no more than half an inch off the ground!
Although of a different generation to these women & never having worked in a factory there's still quite a lot that resonated with me - I guess working life presents some situations that don't change with the passing years or different environments.
However, the bit that really jogged a memory for me wasn't work related! Barbara may have been at grammar school a couple of decades before me but I remember us all having to kneel down in the hall to make sure or skirts were no more than half an inch off the ground!
June 5, 2016
[Audiobook version]
I do love a good social history book, especially when it focuses on women. I'd never even heard of Carr's table water biscuits before listening to this (and tbh they don't exactly sound appetising) but enjoyed hearing about the history of the factory. And if the descriptions of the bourbons and custard creams rolling along the conveyor belts made me crave a biscuit, then hey, who am I to resist?
I liked the way the individual stories of the six women wove together throughout the book. I assumed each woman's account of their time at Carr's would be covered separately before moving on to the next one, but instead it all came together -- especially since it turned out that despite their differing ages, most (if not all?) of the women knew at least one of the others. And, as always, I found all the little details of their lives fascinating. (One woman's first house cost £1100! I had to rewind the track to be sure I'd heard that correctly.)
I do love a good social history book, especially when it focuses on women. I'd never even heard of Carr's table water biscuits before listening to this (and tbh they don't exactly sound appetising) but enjoyed hearing about the history of the factory. And if the descriptions of the bourbons and custard creams rolling along the conveyor belts made me crave a biscuit, then hey, who am I to resist?
I liked the way the individual stories of the six women wove together throughout the book. I assumed each woman's account of their time at Carr's would be covered separately before moving on to the next one, but instead it all came together -- especially since it turned out that despite their differing ages, most (if not all?) of the women knew at least one of the others. And, as always, I found all the little details of their lives fascinating. (One woman's first house cost £1100! I had to rewind the track to be sure I'd heard that correctly.)
January 8, 2015
Enjoyed this book as I recognised the areas they were talking about perhaps not such a good book for someone who does not know carlisle
November 11, 2022
What a wonderful and insightful read about these amazing working women in a Carr’s biscuit factory. I loved reading about their lives and experiences of working in a factory, spanning post war years and including tales and experiences throughout the war.
The book not only included a compilation of memories from the handful of women featured, but also delved into a brief history of the biscuit factory, from its Victorian roots to modern day. It was so interesting listening about its origins and trade, and how it functioned throughout its span of years.
I really enjoyed reading this and now I’m left with an irrepressible urge to open a tin of biscuits…!
The book not only included a compilation of memories from the handful of women featured, but also delved into a brief history of the biscuit factory, from its Victorian roots to modern day. It was so interesting listening about its origins and trade, and how it functioned throughout its span of years.
I really enjoyed reading this and now I’m left with an irrepressible urge to open a tin of biscuits…!
May 14, 2018
A cracker of a book, it's a cracker
A very engaging book , not one I would normally have read, but glad I did. A social history of working class life, ably put together by Hunter, Full of "well I'll go t top of our stairs, a never knew that". Tha could say it was a cracker of a read, Put thee feet up, get thee sen a brew and a Carr's biscuit, n enjoy it. Don't dip out or else thay'll miss a good treat.
A very engaging book , not one I would normally have read, but glad I did. A social history of working class life, ably put together by Hunter, Full of "well I'll go t top of our stairs, a never knew that". Tha could say it was a cracker of a read, Put thee feet up, get thee sen a brew and a Carr's biscuit, n enjoy it. Don't dip out or else thay'll miss a good treat.
February 24, 2019
This is a fascinating piece of social history; the stories of 6 'Biscuit Girls' who worked at the Carr's factory in Carlisle. Their stories are small but important, as they chart the progress of women workers from post-war to today. Hunter Davies pitches the tone just right: the stories are touching, often moving but never maudlin or voyeuristic. What comes across is the inner strength of a generation of women who lived by the maxim 'You won't get owt if you do nowt.'
December 1, 2018
Awful audio version
The style of the narrator is irritating. Im not sure what accents she is trying to do! I bought this hoping to play it to my mum who worked at Carr's in the 70s and who now has dementia. I didn't bother as I doubt she would understand the accents and furthermore she would probably have fallen asleep like I did!
The style of the narrator is irritating. Im not sure what accents she is trying to do! I bought this hoping to play it to my mum who worked at Carr's in the 70s and who now has dementia. I didn't bother as I doubt she would understand the accents and furthermore she would probably have fallen asleep like I did!
March 14, 2019
A very good account of working in a large factory environment where gossip between the operatives (mainly ladies) helps them to enjoy a very repetitive working schedule. Nice to go behind the scene with the chosen six ladies and find out what made them tick throughout their lives. A good read especially for someone that has lived in the Carlisle area.
January 16, 2019
It's never going to be a Best Seller
Having worked in a Factory, albeit not a food one, unless you work for a Biscuit concern you will probably find it boring like me.
Far too long - I did read it right though but was glad when I reached the end
Having worked in a Factory, albeit not a food one, unless you work for a Biscuit concern you will probably find it boring like me.
Far too long - I did read it right though but was glad when I reached the end
December 20, 2022
This was a book that caught my eye while I was sorting out the books in the shop where I volunteer.
It was a nice relaxing read, with some heartwarming stories, and it was interesting too. All of the ladies had their own different stories to tell, and I enjoyed reading them all.
It was a nice relaxing read, with some heartwarming stories, and it was interesting too. All of the ladies had their own different stories to tell, and I enjoyed reading them all.
April 4, 2018
To me this story was utterly BORING virtually a history of Carrs Biscuits and Carlisle, if I want to read a history book can always go to the Library. very very disappointing to me.
April 11, 2019
I loved the stories of essentially girls/women working at such a young age. In such a hot environment for so little money. I loved it.
October 23, 2019
Very interesting history of the biscuit industry
April 10, 2020
Introducing book, good social history
May 1, 2020
only read the first chapter was like reading a documentary very boring.
June 2, 2020
I thought it was fiction so was surprised when it wasn't! I'm pleased I stuck with it, fascinating real-life stories from the women who worked in the Carr's biscuit factory through the years.
July 3, 2021
Love this book! Davis is an old friend of my nannas so I wanted to learn about my Cumbrian heritage! Loved this!! Amazing!
September 30, 2022
A book club read, interesting to Carlisle locals & good social history info. Cravings to munch biscuits at times!
October 2, 2024
Loved learning about this factory and it's workers.
March 19, 2017
Interesting book
A look back at the life and times of a major biscuit manufacturer and its employees giving personalised accounts of their lives both inside and out of the factory gates. A good read for those interested in social history .
A look back at the life and times of a major biscuit manufacturer and its employees giving personalised accounts of their lives both inside and out of the factory gates. A good read for those interested in social history .
March 16, 2016
Whilst it is an interesting subject to me due to being born in Carlisle and my father taking an apprenticeship at Carr's, I found that some of the observations patronising and derogatory. The sequence of the book was muddled. The chapters were named after the women but wandered into history not necessarily related to the narrative and then was repeated later. Therefore an interesting read but not great.
February 12, 2016
Really can't do it don't waste your money
November 18, 2017
I really enjoy the way that Hunter Davies writes and this is a great social history book about the ladies who worked in the Carrs Biscuit Factory.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews