This was Alan Clark's first volume of diaries. It is a unique historical record and a potent reminder of the man and his work. It reminds us of his wonderfully rich voice and of the candour, wit and on occasions, venomous descriptions of those around him. It is a warts and all picture of the Thatcher era, where his proximity to power gave him a clear view of the manoeuvrings within Whitehall and Westminster. It also touches on his colourful private life, his love of Saltwood and passion for animals.