The charm of the Channel Islands

Published in 1950, this is a book with a positive outlook on the Channel Islands, by an author who has lived there, and spent a lot of time travelling around the islands, collecting detailed information and stories, and has clearly done thorough research.

The author has done good job of explaining the individuality of the islands, and in general the relationship of the islands with France - alluding to the way this is slowly changing, and the French influences are slowly giving way to more British ways.

Chapters on history are well organised, giving clear detail on the history leading up to the 50's, especially the second world war occupation by the Germans. The unique nature of the culture and the way of life in the 50's on the islands is also captured, before a chapter on manors an churches, then flora, fauna and fishes. Of these, birds are the authors speciality, and they are rigorously covered - the others a little less so.

Ultimately this book if clear and thorough, if not highly stimulating. A piece of collected history I guess.

2.5 stars. Does what it needs to.