Title: Village School
Author: Miss Read
Genre: Fiction
About the book…
Village School is the first book in the Fairacre Series written by Miss Read (pseudonym of Dora Shafe). It follows a year in the village of Fairacre as seen through the eyes of Miss Read, the school teacher, recounting the various enjoyments and challenges faced by the villagers.
What I think…
I don’t think I could ever tire of this book or its author. In general, I am prone to liking books that take place in the English countryside or small villages and Village School is one of those books that hits the mark precisely.
Miss Read’s writing is lyrical in the nicest sense and flipping to any page at random will prove that this quality is present throughout. The experiences written about evoke a connection with the endearing characters, which you very quickly develop a liking and sympathy for (even the cranky Mrs. Pringle) as they go through their daily lives.
It is a delight to read about the school children and the things that happen at the school (quite obviously a big part of this book), and makes one wish that they had gone to school there with Miss Read or Miss Clare (teacher of the younger students) as their teacher. Another aspect that I really enjoy is reading about the various festivities and the preparations for them.
In addition, having read her biography, it was fun to pick up on some of the references to things that the real Miss Read experienced (such as her disappointment of not being allowed to use a metal sand shovel as a child).
To sum it all up…
This is the book you want to go to if you are looking for something well written, light and pleasant in subject matter, and overall charming in every way. And if you really like it there’s the advantage of it being followed by nineteen other books, the next three which I can vouch for as being equally as good! ♥
I don't think I've ever heard of it. I may ask my sis if she has. We all could use a nice English countryside once in a while.
ReplyDeleteHappy to have brought it to your attention. :) We certainly could with the way life is so busy and fast paced today, even if it's only through reading.
DeleteReally enjoyable review, my dear, thank you for the introduction to this thoroughly lovely title. I am very prone to liking books set in the rambling, idyllic English countryside as well, in no small part because I will have harbor the belief that I was secretly meant to be born into an old money British family and live in just such a charming place. :)
ReplyDeleteTons of hugs & happy weekend wishes,
♥ Jessica
I am more than happy to have introduced you to it. :) What a delightful thought to have had!
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