David Lambert

Read this at age 10 (1963) and loved it - REALLY loved it. Inspirational teacher bought books for his students and put them on a table near the door for (us) to take home - to read - then return. Teachers weren't as approachable in the 1960's, but the following year, prior to leaving to go to secondary school, I bravely asked him if I could buy this book. He was obviously pleased that I'd taken such an interest and gave me his copy. I reread it several times during the years following, but lost it during a house move. A few years ago I bought a used copy and read it in bed until the early hours. Much of the magic was still there.

Read several Lillian Beckwith books back in the 1970's and loved them. Easy to read, anecdotal escapism at its best.

My wife and I bought Duncton Wood at the point of publication. We both loved it and bought all the sequels. Our passion for these never faltered - and that's why, this afternoon, after a literary discussion naming our favourite all time novels - I ended up keying 'Duncton Wood' into Google. Sadly, we didn't keep the books; they probably went to friends or a charity shop but we intend to repurchase the books in an effort to relive some of the magic and wallow in the escapism they provided at the time.

Extraordinary novel. So far removed from the majority of ill considered, flippant, semi literate comments of one star reviewers. Admittedly, works by the Bronte sisters use language that is sometimes difficult for 21st century readers to assimilate, but they were a product of their age. Almost two centuries have elapsed since the sisters put pen to paper. It takes time and a bit of effort to 'tune in'. Any attempt to update them using more modern language would be a disaster.

70's classic. Packed with great melody's from beginning to end. The production is / was excellent. Cat Stevens is a master at building momentum and dynamics in his songs. Never too long, never boring and no fillers.

I read this book 40 years ago! Today, my wife & I were discussing our all time best reads and this one surfaced from my memory. I recall it being a witty, insightful & inspirational book. I read it twice and I'm going to see if I can find it online for a revisit.