Jane, who shares so many wonderful things with us, has already introduced me to Margaret Kennedy and Margery Sharp {and to contemporary mystery writer Kate Rhodes}, so whenever she gives us a list, it almost always turns into a list of books I want to read.:) In January, she shared a wonderful 'Birthday Book of Underappreciated Lady Authors,' and the birthday list is already tacked up over my desk. Today is Dorothy Whipple's birthday, and since I know so many of you read and love her books, I'm especially glad to be finally reading one now.
After looking at the descriptions on the Persephone Books website, I had my heart set on Greenbanks.The college library (oh, joy!) actually has many Persephones, or in some cases other editions of the books, but not this one ... so I was thrilled to find that there was a Kindle edition.
I've been loyally reading The Portrait of a Lady on the bus, I'm about two-thirds of the way through, and I'm enjoying it so much. But on the way home on Friday, I couldn't resist reading just the first chapter of Greenbanks, and -- I'm so sorry Bellezza, and JoAnn, and Henry, I'll come back to you, but the trials and tribulations of the Ashtons have carried me away for now.:)
Have you read Greenbanks? Which of her other books do you especially recommend?
7 comments:
I have read They Were Sisters, Because of the Lockwoods, Someone at a Distance, (and Greenbanks). I gave "Someone" 4 stars on Goodreads, and the rest of them 5. You can't go wrong with any of those!
I am so pleased that you are enjoying your first encounter with Dorothy Whipple. 'Greenbanks' is my favourite of her books that I've read, and I would can warmly recommend all of them.
Oh, Dorothy Whipple! I loved Someone at a Distance and They Were Sisters. Wanted to pick up The Priory on her birthday, but it's on my shelf back in NY. Greenbanks is on my wish list.
Thought I was falling behind with Henry... on chapter 38 now. We've had a steady stream of guests this month (sister & BIL left last weekend, college roommate & hubby arrive tomorrow) so I haven't walked alone in a long time. I suppose it would be rude to listen to an audiobook while walking with friends? ;-)
I read Someone at a Distance for Dorothy Whipple's Birthday, and thought it was excellent. But if you've not read her before I'd recommend you start with her short stories. They're beautifully written, quiet little stories, where not a lot happens (but there's always lots going on beneath the surface) and she was a very acute observer of middle-class people and their lives. If you like the short stories of Elizabeth Taylor or Mollie Panter-Downes then I think you would like these.
I still have Greenbanks unread, I think I'm hoarding it because I'll be really sad when I've read all her books. And there's another one to be published by Persephone in April!
I have a fear of Henry James after reading The Turn of the Screw, but I've been reading Edith Wharton lately and feel like I should give him another go. They were great friends and I think they have similar writing styles.
i've read it 3 times. There are new (cleverly subtle) things to notice and each read. Notice the way the handicrafts echo the mood and concerns of the women as though they have their own voice for instance. Every one of hers is a masterpiece and she should have the recognition. Can I recommend high wages next?
Thank you for all the recommendations! I love 'discovering' a new author and I' glad I have so many of her books to look forward to.
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