Notwithstanding
Stories from an English Village
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Vintage Publishing
Published:6th May '10
Should be back in stock very soon
In the enchanting village of Notwithstanding, eccentric characters navigate life with humor and heart, revealing the charm of a bygone England.
Set in the whimsical village of Notwithstanding, this novel introduces readers to a cast of eccentric characters that breathe life into a charming yet peculiar community. Among them is a lady who sports plus fours while hunting squirrels, a retired general who has decided to forgo clothing altogether, and a spiritualist who resides with the ghost of her late husband. The villagers' quirky habits and interactions make for a delightful exploration of human nature and the bonds formed in this unique setting.
The narrative draws on the author's own memories of the village from his childhood, weaving together humor and poignant moments that reflect on a bygone era. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that each character, no matter how odd, plays a vital role in the fabric of village life. The blend of the surreal and the relatable creates a rich tapestry that invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the peculiarities of their communities.
Notwithstanding is not just a light-hearted romp through a quaint village; it also touches on deeper themes of loss, memory, and the passage of time. With its vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, this book captures the essence of a charming yet vanished England, making it a memorable read for anyone who appreciates a good tale filled with heart and humor.
A funny, astute and moving depiction of a charming vanished England -- Corrine Buxton * BBC Countryfile *
A delightful collection...exquisitely told -- Clare Colvin * Daily Mail *
Comic, benignly forgiving and shot through with threads of nostalgic regret * Independent *
A timely examination of the charming and, at time, heart-wrenchingly sad aspects of English village life...testament to the rude health of the author's own imagination -- Adam O'Riordan * Financial Times *
The creator of Captain Corelli is fond of an exotic setting and he has found one in his own backyard... The stories are sketches of lives that settle into the atmosphere of a place and make it unique -- Kate Saunders * The Times *
ISBN: 9780099542025
Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 24mm
Weight: 277g
400 pages