Books matching: post war england
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- #1
Beverley Nichols' 'Merry Hall' is a delightful memoir chronicling the author's journey of acquiring a Georgian manor house with a derelict garden post-World War II. Nichols, a witty writer and avid gardener, recounts the challenges and joys of restoring the estate's landscaping, introducing readers to eccentric characters like the gardener Gaskin and nosy neighbors. Through his humorous anecdotes and poetic descriptions of the garden, Nichols creates a charming narrative that captures the essence of post-war England and the therapeutic powers of gardening.
- #2
'Jane and Prudence' by Barbara Pym follows the unlikely friendship between Jane, a vicar's wife, and Prudence, a single career woman in London, who bonded during their days at Oxford. The plot meanders while poking gentle, sly fun at church society, gender roles, and love affairs in 1950s Britain. Jane, a quirky vicar's wife, tries her hand at matchmaking to find Prudence a husband, leading to amusing situations and banal conversations. The story unfolds with a mix of humor, wit, and introspection, showcasing the characters' struggles with societal expectations and personal desires.
Jane and Prudence were walking in the college garden before dinner. Their conversation came in excited little bursts, for Oxford is very lovely in midsummer, and the glimpses of grey towers through th... - #3
The Lime Twig is a novel that delves into a dreamy and artistic portrayal of a disturbing story, set in post-war England. The narrative follows Michael and Margaret Banks as they are dragged into the criminal underworld due to Michael's involvement in a racehorse scam. The author, John Hawkes, intricately weaves a suspenseful plot with vivid descriptions of the English landscape, creating a disordered dreamscape that is both exaggerated and strangely familiar. The writing style is hypnotic and oddly beautiful, even when depicting filth and violence, leaving the reader slightly exhausted yet intoxicated by the imagery.
SIDNEY SLYTER SAYS Happy Throngs Arrive at Aldington for Golden Bowl … Mystery Horse to Run in Classic Race … Rock Castle: Dark Horse or Foul Play? Gray toppers, gray gloves and polished walking stick... - #4
Flavia de Luce, an eleven-year-old aspiring chemist and amateur detective, discovers a dead body in her family's garden, leading her to investigate the mysterious circumstances surrounding the murder. Set in 1950s England, the book follows Flavia's witty and precocious narration as she navigates through the intricate plot filled with unique characters and a charming setting. The writing style is described as quirky, fun, and filled with delightful language that captures the essence of the time period.
IT WAS AS BLACK IN THE CLOSET AS OLD BLOOD. THEY had shoved me in and locked the door. I breathed heavily through my nose, fighting desperately to remain calm. I tried counting to ten on every intake ... - #5
"The Virgin in the Garden" delves into the lives of the Potter family in 1952 and 1953, focusing on the dynamics between the various family members, including the headstrong father Bill, the submissive mother Winifred, the intellectual sisters Stephanie and Frederica, and the peculiar younger brother Marcus. The plot revolves around the creation of a play about Queen Elizabeth I, showcasing themes of dysfunctional families, intellectual pursuits, and coming of age in a period of post-war scarcity. A.S. Byatt's writing style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, intricate character development, and a narrative that gradually reveals the complexities of each character's inner world.
- #6
Set in rural post-war England, 'The Darling Buds of May' by H.E. Bates introduces readers to the extraordinary life of the Larkin family, particularly focusing on the charming and carefree patriarch, Pop Larkin. The story unfolds as a young tax inspector, Cedric Charlton, visits the Larkin's farm and becomes enchanted by the family's lifestyle, especially by Mariette, the eldest daughter. As he gets drawn into the world of the Larkins, tax evasion becomes a distant memory, and he experiences the warmth and beauty that the family exudes in their idyllic countryside setting. The narrative paints a picture of a pastoral paradise where family, fun, and living in harmony with nature take precedence over societal norms and material wealth.
The book captures the essence of a simpler, more joyful way of life through the lens of the Larkin family's unconventional yet endearing existence. With a focus on sensory delights, warmth, and generosity, the author immerses readers in a world where the Larkins embrace the pleasures of life, enchanting those around them with their open-hearted and generous approach. Through Pop and Ma Larkin's perspective, readers are transported into a world of fragrant fields, mouthwatering meals, and a sense of contentment that transcends material possessions, offering a heartwarming and feel-good reading experience.
After distributing the eight ice-creams—they were the largest vanilla, chocolate, and raspberry super-bumpers, each in yellow, brown, and almost purple stripes—Pop Larkin climbed up into the cab of th... - #7
'Excellent Women' by Barbara Pym is a charming story set in post-World War II England, focusing on the life of Mildred Lathbury, a single clergyman's daughter who is considered one of the excellent women of her time. The book delves into the everyday work Mildred undertakes in the church, her interactions with a variety of characters in her neighborhood, and her observations on relationships and societal expectations. Through a first-person narrative, the author portrays a bittersweet portrayal of loneliness and conformity, capturing the nuances of parish life and the struggles faced by women like Mildred in the 1950s.
The novel is praised for its character-driven plot, detailed portrayal of post-war England, and the author's keen eye for social satire. Barbara Pym's writing style is described as witty, subtle, and engaging, with a focus on the everyday lives of the characters, making it an immersive and insightful read into the life of an 'excellent woman' navigating societal norms and personal desires.
‘Ah, you ladies! Always on the spot when there’s something happening!’ The voice belonged to Mr Mallett, one of our churchwardens, and its roguish tone made me start guiltily, almost as if I had no ri... - #8
An English Murder by Cyril Hare is a classic English country house mystery set at Warbeck Hall during Christmas. The story unfolds as a group of guests, including a diverse mix of characters with political affiliations and historical backgrounds, become snowbound in the house. A murder occurs, leading to an investigation led by Dr. Bottwink, a Central European historian, and Sergeant Rogers, a Special Branch Detective. The plot is filled with subtle humor, diverse political views, and an ingenious mystery that keeps the reader engaged till the end.
Warbeck Hall is reputed to be the oldest inhabited house in Markshire. The muniment room in the north-eastern angle is probably its oldest part; it is certainly the coldest. Dr. Wenceslaus Bottwink, P... - #9
"The Midwife: A Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times" by Jennifer Worth is a memoir of a midwife nurse working in London's poorest neighborhood in the 1950s. It explores the lives of women dealing with poverty, abuse, and the challenges of endless babies, while also showcasing how the mothers, midwives, and nuns found meaning and love in such hardship. provides a glimpse into the relationships between nurses, nuns, and their patients in 1950s Poplar, London, and is adapted into a major television series, making it an easy and enjoyable read with lovely prose.
Why did I ever start this? I must have been mad! There were dozens of other things I could have been - a model, air hostess, or a ship’s stewardess. The ideas run through my head, all glamorous, highl... - #10
Set in 1950s London, "The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets" by Eva Rice follows the story of Penelope, a young woman from an impoverished wealthy family, who befriends Charlotte, a lively and charming girl. Their friendship leads Penelope into a whirlwind of high society parties, rock and roll, and romance. The novel delves into family secrets, coming of age, and the nuances of relationships, all against the backdrop of post-World War II Britain. With references to American pop culture and a touch of mystery, the story unfolds through engaging characters and captivating storytelling.
I met Charlotte in London one afternoon while waiting for a bus. Just look at that sentence! That in itself is the first extraordinary thing, as I took the bus as rarely as once or twice a year, and e...