Joanna Godden By: Sheila Kaye-Smith (1887-1956)
Joanna Godden by Sheila Kaye-Smith is a captivating and thought-provoking novel set in the early 20th century in the rural landscape of Kent, England. The story revolves around the life of the eponymous protagonist, Joanna Godden, a fiercely independent and determined woman who inherits her father's farm after his death. What makes this novel truly remarkable is the way in which it explores themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the conflicting desires for love and independence. Joanna, being a single woman in a male-dominated world, faces numerous challenges and obstacles as she strives to make her farm successful and prove herself to her skeptical community. Kaye-Smith's skillful portrayal of Joanna's struggles is both realistic and compelling, allowing readers to empathize with her and understand the weight of her choices. Moreover, the author masterfully weaves the beautiful and sometimes harsh landscape of Kent throughout the narrative. The vivid descriptions of the land, the changing seasons, and the hard work required to farm in such an environment create a palpable and immersive setting, which serves as a metaphor for Joanna's own journey towards self-discovery. It is worth noting that, although published in 1921, Joanna Godden tackles issues that remain relevant today. The exploration of gender inequality and the limited choices available to women in a patriarchal society is thought-provoking and prompts reflection on the progress made since the time of the novel's setting. The characters in this novel are well-developed and realistic, each with their own unique traits and flaws. From Joanna herself, who is feisty yet vulnerable, to the supporting cast of strong-willed women and skeptical men, every character contributes to the richness and depth of the story. Additionally, the dialogue is authentic and perfectly captures the rural dialect of the time, further enhancing the realism of the narrative. However, one slight drawback of Joanna Godden is its pacing. At times, the story unfolds slowly, focusing on mundane details that may test the patience of some readers. Yet, those who appreciate realistic storytelling will find that the slow pace allows for a better understanding of Joanna's daily struggles and the weight she carries on her shoulders. In conclusion, Joanna Godden by Sheila Kaye-Smith is a poignant and beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of gender dynamics and personal identity. The vivid setting, well-drawn characters, and timeless themes make it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in exploring the challenges and triumphs of strong women in a changing world. First Page: JOANNA GODDEN by Sheila Kaye Smith 1921 To W.L. GEORGE CONTENTS PART I SHEPHERD'S HEY PART II FIRST LOVE PART III THE LITTLE SISTER PART IV LAST LOVE NOTE Though local names, both of places and people, have been used in this story, the author states that no reference is intended to any living person. JOANNA GODDEN PART I SHEPHERD'S HEY §1 Three marshes spread across the triangle made by the Royal Military Canal and the coasts of Sussex and Kent. The Military Canal runs from Hythe to Rye, beside the Military Road; between it and the flat, white beaches of the Channel lie Romney Marsh, Dunge Marsh and Walland Marsh, from east to west. Walland Marsh is sectored by the Kent Ditch, which draws huge, straggling diagrams here, to preserve ancient rights of parishes and the monks of Canterbury. Dunge Marsh runs up into the apex of the triangle at Dunge Ness, and adds to itself twenty feet of shingle every year. Romney Marsh is the sixth continent and the eighth wonder of the world. The three marshes are much alike; indeed to the foreigner they are all a single spread of green, slatted with watercourses. No river crosses them, for the Rother curves close under Rye Hill, though these marshes were made by its ancient mouth, when it was the River Limine and ran into the Channel at Old Romney... Continue reading book >>

Joanna Godden By: Sheila Kaye-Smith (1887-1956)

Joanna Godden by Sheila Kaye-Smith is a captivating and thought-provoking novel set in the early 20th century in the rural landscape of Kent, England. The story revolves around the life of the eponymous protagonist, Joanna Godden, a fiercely independent and determined woman who inherits her father's farm after his death.

What makes this novel truly remarkable is the way in which it explores themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the conflicting desires for love and independence. Joanna, being a single woman in a male-dominated world, faces numerous challenges and obstacles as she strives to make her farm successful and prove herself to her skeptical community. Kaye-Smith's skillful portrayal of Joanna's struggles is both realistic and compelling, allowing readers to empathize with her and understand the weight of her choices.

Moreover, the author masterfully weaves the beautiful and sometimes harsh landscape of Kent throughout the narrative. The vivid descriptions of the land, the changing seasons, and the hard work required to farm in such an environment create a palpable and immersive setting, which serves as a metaphor for Joanna's own journey towards self-discovery.

It is worth noting that, although published in 1921, Joanna Godden tackles issues that remain relevant today. The exploration of gender inequality and the limited choices available to women in a patriarchal society is thought-provoking and prompts reflection on the progress made since the time of the novel's setting.

The characters in this novel are well-developed and realistic, each with their own unique traits and flaws. From Joanna herself, who is feisty yet vulnerable, to the supporting cast of strong-willed women and skeptical men, every character contributes to the richness and depth of the story. Additionally, the dialogue is authentic and perfectly captures the rural dialect of the time, further enhancing the realism of the narrative.

However, one slight drawback of Joanna Godden is its pacing. At times, the story unfolds slowly, focusing on mundane details that may test the patience of some readers. Yet, those who appreciate realistic storytelling will find that the slow pace allows for a better understanding of Joanna's daily struggles and the weight she carries on her shoulders.

In conclusion, Joanna Godden by Sheila Kaye-Smith is a poignant and beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of gender dynamics and personal identity. The vivid setting, well-drawn characters, and timeless themes make it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in exploring the challenges and triumphs of strong women in a changing world.

First Page:

JOANNA GODDEN

Sheila Kaye Smith

1921

W.L. GEORGE

CONTENTS

PART I SHEPHERD'S HEY

PART II FIRST LOVE

PART III THE LITTLE SISTER

PART IV LAST LOVE

NOTE

Though local names, both of places and people, have been used in this story, the author states that no reference is intended to any living person.

JOANNA GODDEN

PART I

SHEPHERD'S HEY

§1

Three marshes spread across the triangle made by the Royal Military Canal and the coasts of Sussex and Kent. The Military Canal runs from Hythe to Rye, beside the Military Road; between it and the flat, white beaches of the Channel lie Romney Marsh, Dunge Marsh and Walland Marsh, from east to west. Walland Marsh is sectored by the Kent Ditch, which draws huge, straggling diagrams here, to preserve ancient rights of parishes and the monks of Canterbury. Dunge Marsh runs up into the apex of the triangle at Dunge Ness, and adds to itself twenty feet of shingle every year. Romney Marsh is the sixth continent and the eighth wonder of the world.

The three marshes are much alike; indeed to the foreigner they are all a single spread of green, slatted with watercourses. No river crosses them, for the Rother curves close under Rye Hill, though these marshes were made by its ancient mouth, when it was the River Limine and ran into the Channel at Old Romney... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Sheila Kaye-Smith
Wikipedia – Joanna Godden

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