Islander: A Journey Around Our Archipelago

Reading this charming account of 11 of its islands, suggests that ‘The British Isles’ is the most appropriate name for a country consisting of 1 large island, part of another large island, and 6,289 small ones. Patrick Barkham’s accounts of island life are deeply engaging, ranging from lush descriptions of nature and landscape, reminiscent of the word skill of Gerald Durrell, to perceptive characterisations of islanders and island communities. Stories of wartime Alderney, the evacuation of St Kilda, the gentrification of Osea, tourism, ascetic religious retreat, conservationists, military research and warning stations, island diets of puffin and seabirds, are all fascinating.The chapter headings taken from D H Lawrence’s ‘The Man who loved Islands’ provoke thought. The many references to Compton Mackenzie become somewhat intrusive, and might be better brought together in one separate chapter. A chapter summarising the characteristics and potential meanings of island life would also have been interesting. A deeply absorbing read.

By the book blurb I thought the subject was islands around Britain. Some were covered but the subject was actually a third rate author called Compton Mackenzie, and the islands he bought, rented or just set foot on. The actual islands were of second importance. Really disappointed. When Bark-ham got on about the islands, and avoided family matters, it turned into a better read. If he managed to avoid Mackenzie then D.H. Lawrence was in the ring. No not get this book.

Interesting way to tell stories whilst travelling around the UK islands.Some nuggets.

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I loved the different aspect he gave each island. I shall definitely read more of his books. The people he meets really come to life on the islands.