Rowena Farre (1922–1979)

Maurice Fleming, in his 'afterword' appended to Farre's narrative, claims "this is escapism of the best and purest kind" and he's right: Seal Morning is an alluring tale that effortlessly transports the reader to an uncomplicated life dominated by friendly countryside and even friendlier animals. It enchants with an elegant simplicity, and is a delight to read, especially if you have a sympathy for rustic charm and need something to soothe and relax.

But you have to suspend belief, because this is a fantasy world, a world far removed from the harsh reality of life on a remote croft in pre-war Sutherland, a rugged and often wild place. There aren't any elves, pixies or fairies as such, but you wouldn't be surprised if they appear amongst the singing, dancing animals: it wasn't just the humans who were multi-talented in this household!

On lending the book to a friend, his subsequent comment was "what a load of tosh"! And, in many ways I agree, because it cannot be accepted as a true and accurate account of seven years in a young girl's life. There are too many doubts, and Fleming suggests discrepancies with her other books. He also points out that no-one has been able to identify the location of this mysterious croft.

However, it works if approached as a fictionalised story based on real events: it is clear Farre has a sound knowledge and understanding of her subject based on personal experience. With her fluid prose, and a gift for story-telling, she has created a world that many will find eminently attractive in our more cynical age. We will never know how much is true and how much is the product of an active imagination, but perhaps it doesn't matter!

A reserved recommendation, then, but for a more realistic view of life in the Highlands I heartily advocate Iain Thomson's Isolation Shepherd.… (meer)