Perhaps there is a right time to read a book. I started The Scent of Water by Elizabeth Goudge some years ago, but I didn’t finish it. This time as I read the book I was thoroughly enjoying the writing. I lingered over the descriptions of setting, and the interesting choice of words, the unique phrases. I looked up some words in the dictionary.
The story follows the main character’s move to a village town in England. Mary, like the author, is single and has inherited a cottage from a cousin. She meets the endearing members of the village, each with their human quirks and flaws.
Throughout the book there are glimpses into a diary of a woman who suffered from mental illness. Mental illness is portrayed with insight and compassion by this author.
There are children in the story also. They are portrayed in a lovely, understanding way.
I would guess that Elizabeth Goudge understood and delighted in children. I enjoyed the special collection of “little things” that captures the imagination of the children.
The Scent of Water is a gentle story about people with flaws, the pursuit of faith, health and relationship. You have to read the book to catch the significance of the title.
A website about Elizabeth Goudge (1900 – 1984) provides a brief biography.
This post is part of #Write28Days. To view all the posts in the series click here.
Sharing this post with Literary Musing Monday and Booknificent Thursday.
I’ve never heard of this author before. Thanks for being a part of Booknificent Thursday this month at Mommynificent.com! It’s a pleasure visiting your blog!
Tina
Hi Tina, Thanks for visiting and thank-you for hosting the link-up!
I loved this book…given to me by a friend years ago. One of my favorites. So funny, because I JUST bought a copy for another friend of mine, and then today I saw your review on the Literary Moment Link Up and had to stop by and leave a comment.
It makes a lovely gift. Thank-you for visiting.
I discovered Elizabeth Goudge this year, and was completely drawn in to her lovely writing and sensitive characterization! I’m intrigued by this one! Thanks for the review.
It’s good to see books expression a compassionate viewpoint toward mental illness. Thanks for sharing this book, Carol.