This book was recommended to me by our outstanding library volunteer, Caroline.
Set at the end of the 1950s, post war Britain. I got immersed in the well-written setting and described era . The story revolves around Sylvia Blackwell a twenty five year old woman, Sylvia leaves her life in Swindon for a new one in the small market town of East Mole. Sylvia has scored a position as a Children’s Librarian in the quaint little town’s library. No sooner has Sylvia settled into her new post when love comes into her life, in the form of a local married man. I really do love the writing of the relationships with the children the best. Her neighbours son being the most complex and intriguing.
The story is in two parts and we are cut abruptly into the present [50 years forward] which would have been bearable but the tone and feel of the story also change here, I understand the reasoning but its difficult when reading to switch mindset with such ease, I’m just not sure it was necessary. Some sections are stultifying parts of every day which slows the reading of an otherwise brilliant story. Vickers shows awareness of the moral codes, social changes happening and the shifting social attitudes of this time. Vickers is conscientious in inserting these key details into her novel. The novel looks at human relationships and reminds of how our lives can be enhanced by books or at the very least storytelling. I love the message that the act of imparting a passion for books with others can transform lives.
Oak Tree and Stars by BlueFalcon1983 