She wrote back in longhand on an aerogramme and that was the beginning of several exchanges about books, life, England and Australia. The letters I shared with Dora Saint remain amongst my most treasured possessions.
Her books, those gentle funny witty observations of English rural life from the mid-twentieth century to the beginning of the twenty first, are amongst my most read and loved books.
Last Saturday, on April 7th, ten days short of what would have been her 99th birthday, Dora Jessie Saint passed away peacefully.
On the anniversary of your 99th birthday vale Miss Read and thank you.
What a lovely story. I have read and enjoyed her books. Having letters from her must feel like you have a treasure. I did not know her real name, so thanks for that.
ReplyDeletewhat a lovely post, Rose and I am sorry your dear friend has gone but what a wonderful legacy.
ReplyDeleteI have read any of her books but will look for some today at our library.
Have a great weekend,
Love from Sue
xxxx
I've just posted on Miss Read's death as well. How lucky you were to correspond with her. From what I've read about her, Dora Saint was very much like Miss Read. I've only recently started reading the Thrush Green books so have lots more to look forward to.
ReplyDeleteHi Rose~ I love human interest stories like this, and I love the whole idea of you corresponding with an author! How very special those letters must be to you. I've never read these books, but that cover looks very familiar so maybe I've seen it at sometime in the library. I enjoyed your post.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad serendipity brought me to your blog this evening, I will be back often. What a wonderful post. I will look for the series at the used book shoppes in town, library, etc.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear of the author's passing. It's so nice you were able to have a written relationship with her. What a treasure those letters must be.
NatalieAnn