period in British history. The opening of the memoir introduces Shaylor's early life in Gloucestershire, where he recounts formative experiences in his childhood, including his initial education and the joy of exploring the natural beauty of the Cotswolds. He paints a vivid picture of his upbringing and the influence of his parents, particularly his mother, on his character. Shaylor details his entry into the bookselling trade at a young age, outlining his apprenticeship and the challenges he faced. The opening sets the stage for a rich narrative that intertwines personal growth with the broader history of the book trade, indicating that the memoir will provide insights into both Shaylor's life and the literary culture of his time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)