Back to Mitford

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Among my Christmas haul of books, was the latest in the Mitford series by Jan Karon, My Beloved.

For those familiar with the town of Mitford and its denizen's particularly Father Tim, this book feels like a homecoming. Familiar characters are there -- Cynthia, Dooley, Lace, Esther and Ray Cunningham, Harley and Willie -- but, like the author, they are older. Father Tim is fully retired and his joints are creaky. Ray has a health scare and Esther is pretty well housebound. 

The author admits that she "quit" Mitford a couple of times before this book arrived in her imagination. Jan Karon herself is in her late eighties so it's no wonder her characters are looking at more life behind than before them. 

If you haven't read any of the Mitford books before, I'd suggest starting with one or two of the earlier volumes. My Beloved feels like it picks up in the middle of the story and if you haven't met the characters before or have a notion of the town, you might be confused. The action in the book is quick and the point of view jumps from one character to another with each chapter. Perhaps at her age, the author feels she hasn't time to waste on setting or backstory.😀

Our dear Anne M, who passed away last weekend, was a great fan of Jan Karon. She introduced me to the Mitford books. She also initiated our church library, which includes a set of the Mitford novels for anyone to enjoy. In honour of Anne, I've donated My Beloved to our shelves to complete the set. 

I heartily recommend this series. The stories are funny, poignant, and inspirational. Maybe start with At Home in Mitford, and go from there.

Ed. Note: The book has been donated, but is already out on loan. It will be available for sharing in a week or two.