Dunedin Public Libraries News & Reviews Blog

New York Times journalist Lily Koppel discovers a dumpster full of old suitcases outside her apartment block.  One of the treasures she uncovers is an old ‘red leather diary’.

The leather of the diary turns to dust in her hands as she opens the book. Inside she notices a name.

Florence Wolfson was fourteen when she began keeping her diary.  For five years from 1929 to 1934 she didn’t miss an entry.

As the daughter of a successful medical practitioner she lived a life of wealth and privilege.  She spent her evenings at the theater, weekends at the art galleries and museums and went horse riding in Central Park in the mornings before school.  At nineteen she traveled solo around Europe.  For her the Great Depression didn’t exist.

We are introduced a remarkable and talented young writer who vividly brings the glamorous New York of the early twentieth century to life.

Lily Koppel was fascinated by what might have happened to the girl in the diary and successfully tracks down Florence Wolfson (now 90) and reunites her with the diary.

This book is a result of this wonderful reunion, it’s an absolute delight and you won’t be able to put it down.

• www.dunedinlibraries.govt.nz – red leather diary – lily koppel