The season finale of GIRLS happened this past week, and one highlight for me was book-spotting grumpy Ray reading I Capture the Castle. Have you read it? It might be one of my Top 10. It was written in 1948 by Dodie Smith about a poor family living in a washed-up castle, making do and having fun. Coming of age of a seventeen year old girl, journal style, eccentric father, unexpected visitors…I know that sounds predictable but truly, it is a charmer! I recommend, as Ray did by saying, “This book is so fucking incredible. Anything by a British woman is just…fuck.” (or you could read my longer review here.)
Very apropos too, because the Summer Solstice plays a lovely role in that book and I always wish that I had some sort of tradition or rite to do on the longest day of the year. Is there anything you like to do to mark these kinds of holidays?
You have recommended that to me before and I had trouble finding it at the time. Must try again!
I am always desperate to celebrate winter solstice as the short days are so short!
Here is my menu from my solstice party!
http://whatsanniecooking.wordpress.com/2011/12/20/solstice-party-champagne-and-hors-doeuvres/
I LOVE I Capture the Castle! And I haven’t seen Girls yet, but judging by Ray’s recommendation of one of my most favorite novels, I think I’d love it.
Every year at the summer solstice, my mom has a (teeny tiny) bonfire in her (itty bitty) Cambridge back yard. We all invite our friends to make smores and eat strawberries, and it’s always a highlight of the summer, before summer’s really begun.
yes! This was exactly the type of story I was hoping for. Kudos to you and your mom. I’m glad you blogging again. You have a great archive of posts.