| |  | | Woman in headscarf by Marika |
| |
Escape from Hungary
 Listen to the item
If you've been in or around Whitstable in Kent over the past few months, you may have been impressed by a fine exhibition of painting by local artist, Marika Cavell. The exhibitions been accompanied by a biography of Marika written by her husband David.
David and Marika's is a loving and happy marriage, and they have two children. But Marika has spent most of her life trying to exorcise the horrors of her Hungarian childhood and still suffers nightmares 50 years on.
After enduring terrible hardship and abuse as a circus performer, Marika eventually ran away from the circus. Her life on the streets of Budapest brought other traumas, and Marika also witnessed atrocities committed during the Hungarian uprising of 1956. Still only a teenager, she was wounded whilst trying to flee the country. At her third attempt, she made it, and found her way to London where she met her husband.
She and David tell their story - a story which includes graphic accounts of violence. It begins in the circus in Hungary...
Marika's book, Gravel for Dinner, is published by Bookist, ISBN 0955001803. Marika would particularly like to thank her husband David, publisher,Dave Heenan and graphic designer, James.
Tell us your views
Useful Links
Contact the BBC Actionline for further information on organisations which may be able to offer advice or support: 0800 044 044
Country profile: Hungary
Wikipedia - Hungarian Uprising |
