Title: Who is Joe Daniels? Does it Matter?
Geoff Miller, the retired Dean of Newcastle Cathedral, has penned a captivating memoir titled Who is Joe Daniels? Does it Matter? The book takes readers on a personal journey through Miller’s family history, beginning with his parents’ lives as teenagers who married just after World War II and settled on the large Wythenshawe council estate in Manchester.
Miller’s work delves into a mystery surrounding his family’s identity, particularly exploring a family member whose origins were shrouded in secrecy. The story is deeply rooted in the rich, often untold experiences of ordinary people navigating post-war Britain. Through a mix of family knowledge, stories, and personal memories, Miller sheds light on the complex and, at times, hidden facets of his family’s past.
The book touches on the cultural and historical shifts his family experienced, such as the post-war practice of changing names to assimilate, often to avoid anti-Semitic discrimination. Miller discovered that his father came from a Jewish family, leading to revelations that changed how he viewed his own heritage.
Though not a long book, Miller says writing it was a labour of love, with many anecdotes that reflect the gritty, humorous character of his father and life in the post-war North of England. He fondly recalls one story where his father, using his practical yet comedic sense, improvised solutions to life’s challenges—including a humorous account of trying to stretch young Geoff to fit a too-large bike.
The memoir not only explores personal family dynamics but also touches on broader themes of identity, cultural differences, and the importance of knowing where we come from. Readers will find a blend of mystery, family intrigue, and warmth as Miller reflects on the twists of fate that shaped his family’s story.
Who is Joe Daniels? Does it Matter? is a poignant tribute to those who lived through the post-war period and a fascinating glimpse into the ways cultural and familial histories intertwine.
Although he’s now retired, Geoff started his career in the North East in the early 80’s working in a church in Jarrow where he eventually met his wife. After working in a variety of churches throughout Northumberland and Tyneside he ended his ecumenical career as the Dean of Newcastle Cathedral.
“Despite being from Manchester, I’m now an adopted Geordie and have settled in well in the region. Researching the book has made me look differently at people who have had to settle in parts of the world away from their native lands. Suddenly finding that I have Jewish Lithuanian roots has raised a few eyebrows considering my church career. I’ve written the book firstly for my own family so that they have a record of where they come from but secondly for everyone who has a piece of the jigsaw missing in their family trees. I hope it encourages others to start researching,” he added.