Reviewed by Sharma Krauskopf and rated
Sometimes when you hear the term classic applied to a book you think old fashioned and one you "should" read it because it is a classic. The Land of the Leal by James Barke is a book you should read because it is exciting, sensitive and helps someone living in this century to better understand what it was like being poor in turn of the century Scotland. It is the story of David and Jean Ramsey, who start life in the Rhinns of Galloway, an agriculture backwater of southernmost Scotland. In order to make a living and support their family they move to the Borders where they experience one of the greatest losses in their life together. With hearts full of hope they relocate to a great estate. They think they have finally found happiness until they are caught in the middle of a scandal. Tragedy seems to never be far away as they continue to run from one hostile environment to another in order to protect their family.
Finally, with no where else to go they move to Glasgow. Being farmers they find the city life difficult and yearn to go back to Galloway where they grew up. The times are hard in Glasgow and they find their family pulling apart over differences on questioning of authority and the new labor movement. They go back to Galloway for a visit looking for happiness but still do not find the answers they are seeking.
There is nothing I did not like about this book. The characters are so well developed your heart will bleed with their difficulties and smile with their courageous determination to keep their marriage and family together. The description of life in turn of the century Scotland is so detailed the reader can almost see and smell the Border farms, the prosperous estates, and Glasgow's dirt and pollution.
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