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A Shropshire village is Ann Handley’s home in 1851. Her father has destined her to be a farmer’s wife, and says she doesn’t need to read and write. Feeling constrained at home, shelongsto escape. But just as Ann begins to make her way out into the world, a shocking encounter brings misfortune and conflict to her door. She’s forced to leave the village and find work elsewhere; a pattern which future generations will follow. Letters from the Pastis the story of four generations of an ordinary English family. The author, Michael Pantlin, takes us on a well-researched and delightfully readable family history. What could have been a recitation of dry facts, this story instead shows us relatable yet flawed characters. Their believable motivations give them dimension, and the interjected wit keeps us entertained. The author does not shy away from difficult subjects, from rape to tyranny to absentee parenthood to a spoiled daughter. We witness important events of the times and a meticulous rendering of places, bringing history and geography alive. I am not particularly taken with military history, relating better to the pacifist members of this family. Yet, Jack’s wartime experiences during The Great War are riveting, as were civilian descriptions of wartime England in both World Wars. And the interweaving of religion-which should not be ignored in most family histories-is done without judgment, existing primarily to convey what can influence both the admirable and the despicable aspects of human nature. Though not related to this family, I devoured this book. For researchers of English social history from 1850-1950, there are many details to draw upon. For writers and readers alike, there is much to admire. Elizabeth DuBois, JD, Author, The Louisa Saga
