2005 Launch of Bombay to Bloomsbury - Institute for Public History
Bloomsbury to Clayton - Family stories illuminate history
It was extremely exciting to be at the Australian launch of Barbara Caines latest book, Bombay to Bloomsbury: A biography of the Strachey Family. As a student last year studying Biography and Life writing with Barbara, I watched in amazement and awe as she opened her parcel from London and showed us the clear and dramatic photographs of Richard and Jane Strachey and their ten surviving children. As she spread the photographs of this extraordinary family around the table she explained how she had wanted her group biography to illuminate changing notions of imperialism, sexuality, feminism and modernism as she traced their lives and relationships from 1859 to 1968.
Professor Sophie Watson from the Open University, UK launched the book by recounting some of the English reviews. The Times had proclaimed it 'a sterling work, the product of ten years' meticulous research. It cannot be dismissed.' The Guardian pointed out that Caine had 'brilliantly demonstrated' the fusion of history and biography.
Surrounded by proud family, friends, colleagues and students the launch had the atmosphere of a happy family party. Fresh flowers, wine and tasty food served by family and friends all contributed to the fun. The Monash Bookshop had a stand and sold out all their books, they emailed the next day, 'It was a splendid launch. Congratulations.'
Review of the launch by Liza Taylor, who is currently completing her masters, very part time, on the painter and etcher Jessie Traill.
Photos from the Launch of Bombay to Bloomsbury, 20th April, 2005
 Professor Barbara Caine |  Associate Professor Mark Peel (Monash) and Professor Sophie Watson (Open University, UK), who launched the book |
 Professor Barbara Caine with La Trobe University colleague, Dr Diane Kirby |  Monash School of Historical Studies staff members Dr's Emma Christopher, Maria Nugent and Christina Twomey |