Nightingale Wood by Stella Gibbons (1938)
Oh, it’s so charming. I wasn’t surprised, but I was a touch relieved. I only knew Stella Gibbons from the delightful Cold Comfort Farm, which is just so much fun, and I was worried it might have been a one hit wonder. I’m talking about both the book and the film, but I love love love the film. Have you seen it? You should. Young Kate Beckinsale on a farm, with Rufus Sewell and Ian McKellen being ridiculous and hilarious in their own special ways. It’s brilliant. Anyway, Nightingale Wood proves that Gibbons’ wit is not limited to her best known novel. This tale plays with the Cinderella story, adding several Cinderellas and some rather roguish Prince Charmings to the mix. Unlike Thirkell, Gibbons isn’t sharp in her farcical descriptions of Britain’s upper crust; she recognizes the silliness inherent in stiff social conventions and takes it in stride. This makes it a more gentle humor, but none the less enjoyable.