Talk about the Valley

by Norman Creighton, Hilary Sircom (Editor)

Talk about the Valley is the second book of charming essays by Norman Creighton, whose name is a household word in the Annapolis Vally of Nova Scotia. Norman lived on Avon Street in Hansport, where his keen insight into Valley life, his wry sense of humour, and his obvious love of the natural world provided ample material for his weekly CBC radio broadcasts during the 1960s and 70s.

This engaging collection-selected from some 600 talks aired on CBC's "A.M. Chronicle", "Maritime Magazine" and "Radio Noon"-are the places in the Valley, the people who have lived there, and their way of life. It is beautifully illustrated by Normkan's older brother Alan, himself a poet, writer and accomplished artist.

186 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[George Ilsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short sentimental pieces, dripping nostalgia — odes to a lost time. I found the pieces labelled "People" and "Places", mostly from the 60s to be the most engaging. The last section ("Way of Life"— mostly from the 80s) in comparison felt watered down.

This collection is enhanced by photos and some original artwork. There are also some pastoral poems from the author's brother Alan, originally published in the 1930s. They may have resonated in their time.

I enjoyed working my way through this volume.