The Snow Goose is a short classic by Paul Gallico, published in January 1941. I sought this title out after reading Peter Heller's book The Orchard as his well educated main character and narrator was named Frith, one of the main characters in The Snow Goose.
Here is the plot of The Snow Goose - Philip Rhayader is a hunchback with dark hair and a beard, a hump, and a crooked hand resembling a claw. He had much love and empathy to give, but everyone was repelled by his appearance. He was was shunned by all in the town and so heartbroken and lonely, he retreated to an abandoned lighthouse on the salt marshes in Essex. His company was nature and the various wildlife which he captured in paintings.
Then a wild looking little girl called Frith came to his island. She was very brave. She carried an injured snow goose, not knowing what it was, wanting to save it. She had heard of Rhayader's ability to heal and shelter animals. While wary of this large man she had a good heart and wanted to save the bird.
Once the goose heals it flys north but returns every October to visit with Rhayader. Frith, while brave and headstrong, is also a very lonely girl. Her friendship with Rhayader is good for them both. She returns and visits over the years and he shares his knowledge of the marshes, birds and books. They enjoy talking over the seven winters they visit and the healed snow goose returns each year as well.
After a hearing of the battle at Dunkirk Rhayader realizes he can help using his little boat, possibly saving trapped soldiers. Frith begs him not to go as it would be dangerous with Germans still bombing the waters but he sees at last he can contribute and tells her to stay on the island, sailing away to help. The themes are compassion, acceptance, love and friendship.
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Joy's Book Blog for British Isles Friday
This sounds wonderful though a bit heartbreaking. I haven't heard of it but will have to try it.
ReplyDeleteKatherine, it is a heartbreaking ending. Very short book and I only thought about it from reading a Peter Heller book. It's worth getting.
DeleteSo is that the end as he sails off ... or do you need to read on to see if he returns to the island? I like the premise. Interesting that it was published in 1941. It seems like other books have been influenced by its story. Maybe not only Peter Heller use of Frith but perhaps a little Where the Crawdads Sing. Hmm.
ReplyDeleteSusan, that's not the end but it is sad. If your library has it it's worth a check, so short but good.
DeleteThat's a lovely and poignant story. A hunchback artist finding friendship with a wild girl and a snow goose in a lighthouse. I like it already.
ReplyDeleteLux, thank you, I recommend!
DeleteThat sounds like a wonderful story and a peaceful setting.
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of this book, but it sounds wonderful.
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