This is the beautiful tale of Flora Thompson's life from childhood to adolecence in Victorian Oxfordshire. In the book she changes place names and describes event from the character of "Laura". They live in a small hamlet, in a farming community; and the detail of the people and little day to day things is fascinating. The people she describes are so complete... and throughout she tells us so much of her thoughts, emotions and fears, that you feel as if you have met her yourself. From a social history point of view, her descriptions of festivals and rural life, are invaluble. This is a long book, and a little slow in parts, but it is rich and worth reading. You will really be drawn to her character, and feel her highs and lows. It's not as bouncy and amusing as "Cider with Rosie", but it is poignant for its bare honesty. You will wipe away a tear or two whilst reading it, and I promise you won't forget it.