Never Learn to Type: A Woman at the United Nations Book

Absolutely fascinating woman who did ground breaking work for the United Nations in many of its key areas of activity throughout the 20th century.

The book is a bit of a slog at times as there are so many acronyms and committees and people with incredibly long bames and job titles. But Margaret Anstee herself is fascinating, very articulate, very passionate about international development and a thoroughly self-made woman with an incredibly impressive career.

The title appealed to me too. When I was in 6th form studying for A levels, I got a bit disillusioned and decided I would leave and go to the tech college and learn shorthand and typing so I could be an executive secretary. When I announced this to my dad he very cleverly asked if I wouldn't prefer to be the person dictating the letters, rather than the one typing them. I stomped off, furious at his impeccable logic.

Thirty-odd years later I have A levels, a degree and a post grad diploma. I did learn to type, with the advent if computers it was a useful skilll, but only much later. I don't claim a career as interesting or with as much global impact as Margaret Anstee's, but it is engaging and has suited me much better than typing someone else's letters.