A Spade Among the Rushes
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Book Overview
This lucid account of crofting life during the second World War has been a popular classic since its first publication in 1949. One of very few books available on Moidart in the north-west of Scotland, it evokes the enchanted, magical beauty of this much-loved area of the country. Margaret Leigh was already a successful author when her longing for freedom and independence led to her decision to become a crofter in the West Highlands. These memoirs describe her attempts to transform a deserted croft into a home, and her struggles to snatch land back from the wilderness. Although far from the Blitz, the effects of the war are felt throughout the Highlands, and the rationing of food and vital materials, the battles with bureaucrats who had no understanding of a crofter's needs, and even the appearance of a Nazi mine off the coast, all frustrate Margaret Leigh's efforts. But despite the hardships, the land and the people of the Highlands gave her a contentment and happiness she had never known before. This edition has a new Introduction by Katie Maclean, who knew Margaret Leigh during her time in Moidart.
Format:Mass Market Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:1841589861
ISBN13:9781841589862
Release Date:April 2011
Publisher:Birlinn
Length:196 Pages
Weight:0.60 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 5.0" x 7.7"
Customer Reviews
1 rating
If you loved "Ring of Bright Water", you'll love this book.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Margaret Leigh's delightful book decribes crofting life in thecoastal Scottish highlands during WWII. Amid great privation and bone wearying effort, she transports you to a landscape and a life so magical you will ache to be there with her. An anthem of courage and fortitude from a single middle-aged woman with poetry in her soul. My 88 year old neighbor is having me order several copies for friends.
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