RBC Taylor Prize shortlist author Barbara Taylor for The Last Asylum

Canadian author and historian, Barbara Taylor talksabout her latest book The Last asylum. It is an account of her experience in the British mental health system and the Colney Hatch Lunatic Asylum near London. Published by Hamish Hamilton Canada.

[@bottletop10]

Well done for sharing with others such a personal account of your earlier years in an institution that is often seen as evil but as you say set out to do good. I accept that there were many negative aspects to the institution and I would imagine that almost all institutions become corrupt with time. You tell a powerful and positive story to a new generation, thank you.

[@onlinesoupman5966]

Hi my name is joe Purcell. I have spent some time in Frein Barnett. totally agree with your comments on the friendships that can form among the residents if these institutions. I have recently finished writing a theater piece about my time there and the friendships i made there.Met some of the sanest people i have ever came across. Also felt that same sense of stone motherhood you talk of. Asylum in the true sense of the word.

[@steffichakti1545]

Just started this book in January 2025 and I must say it is gripping, tripping, painfully raw, and overall brilliant.

[@wabisabi119]

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