Last week I bought this book in an Oxfam bookshop. I've read the contents before because I have Elizabeth Taylor's book of complete short stories. (The British author NOT the actress.) She is one of my favourite writers, both her short stories and her novels. Many authors can write one or the other form well, but not both. That's not the case with Elizabeth Taylor, long or short they are all great. I'm pleased with my new purchase, eleven stories and just over two hundred pages, it is easy in the hand and the cover suits the writing well, very English, gentle and domestic.
Detail from, 'Love in the Mist' by Nancy Sharp.
The complete book of stories is cumbersome but it has an introduction by Elizabeth Taylor's daughter, Joanna Kingham, which provides some delightful background information. She tells us that many of the stories have an autobiographical element. The title story of my new purchase, 'The Devastating Boys', is of two little boys who come for a fortnights holiday. It is funny and bitter-sweet and I was thrilled to learn that it was a true story and that the boys stayed in touch with Mr Taylor for the rest of his life.
Thanks to Diane at Bibliophile by the sea for hosting Tuesday Intros. Take a look at the books that are being suggested.
Oh, I think this sounds lovely. Hope you enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE her writing, Kay!
DeleteI agree with Kay, the opening is lovely. I'd keep reading!
ReplyDeleteOh, good, I'm glad you like the sound of it, Diana.
DeletePretty cover and a good intro as well. I'd read more.
ReplyDeleteBook covers really matter to me, it's important that they match the contents although it isn't always the case. I think that Virago books are attractive and they are at pains to make a good marriage of image and story.
DeleteI did a double-take when I first saw the book you selected. Elizabeth Taylor wrote books, too? Then I saw your note explaining that this is ANOTHER Elizabeth Taylor, not the actress. Lol.
ReplyDeleteI love love the cover and the intro. The prose style is wonderful, and the plot very interesting. Of course, I had never heard of this author before. I'm adding this one to my TBR!
Thanks for sharing, and for commenting on my own Tuesday Intros post!! :)
Hello Maria, I can't overstate how much I like her writing. She was born in 1912 and is very English and a bit of a period piece (as am I!)but she captures people and situations wonderfully. One of her novels, 'Mrs Palfrey at the Claremont' (1971) has been made into a film. If you read any of her books then do let me know what you think.
DeleteI've heard about the author and have been meaning to read something by her. I do love short stories and the beginning to the one you shared. I'm going to find it.
ReplyDeleteIf you love short stories then I'm sure you will be delighted by Elizabeth Taylor, Margot. 'The Devastating Boys' and another that also features two small boys, called 'Hare Park', are among my favourites.
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