EDITOR’S LETTER
As we have been working on this issue of Good Housekeeping, there have been multiple news reports questioning whether or not the Tokyo Olympics will go ahead this summer. I have to confess, I’ve found it particularly nail-biting, having worked with Alex Scott, Clare Balding and Gabby Logan on this fabulous cover shoot and the interview with the three of them about the longed-for summer of sport
(page 14). Clearly, no one would want the event to take place if it was likely to result in an increase in Covid-19 cases, but with organisers insisting it can happen in absolute safety, it looks as if we can – one year later than originally planned – settle down to watch all the triumphs and dramas of the world’s greatest sporting event.
And don’t we need it? As Gabby Logan so eloquently puts it: ‘The Olympics never fail to bring emotion that you didn’t expect and, after 2020, these Games feel especially important. There’s a cross-generational pull to it, which really brings people together. I think we all need that buzz – that chance to cry and laugh and cheer.’
Many of us may feel emotional watching some of the firsts at this year’s Games, including new mixed events, with men and women competing together in athletics, archery, swimming and basketball. It’s a big step forward in promoting women’s participation and equality. And, with much further still to go in the battle for a level playing field in society, as highlighted by Mary Ann Sieghart in her feature on how the pandemic has affected women more adversely than men (page 62), such progress is both needed and welcome.
Aside from sport, there are many other summer pleasures to be enjoyed, and we’re bringing you plenty of inspiration. Whether you’re able to get away this year or not, it just wouldn’t feel right not to suggest some great deckchair reading! So, we’ve asked some well-known authors to give you their tips for this year’s best page-turners (page 152). And I’m very honoured that The Duchess of Cornwall also spoke to us to share some of her favourite books and thoughts on the importance of reading in life (page 36).
A staycation doesn’t have to mean sacrificing one of the most wonderful things about a holiday – the flavoursome food. Cookery director Meike Beck and her team have surpassed themselves with their delicious recipes that bring us a taste of the Med (page 134) – close your eyes, treat your taste buds and you could almost be there! And what says summer more than a wonderful ice cream? We have those, too (page 140), so enjoy as you tuck into this month’s issue!