Over Hill and Dale (by Gervase Phinn)

(Amazon UK link)

'Over Hill and Dale' is the second autobiographical book by Gervase Phinn. He recounts anecdotes from his days as a school inspector in Yorkshire. I found the first book, 'The Other Side of the Dale', a little stilted. But I enjoyed this one a lot more.

In the mixture of memoir and fiction, this series is a little like James Herriot's books about being a vet. Each chapter is complete in itself, but there are also ongoing friendships and characters who recur. By the end of this book I had quite a clear picture in my mind about some of them, and am eager to read the other two sequels.

There's light humour at times, particularly in the innocence or earthiness of some of the children. Yet it's written without a hint of condescension. The author often comes across as one who asked a stupid question, or an ignoramus knowing little about country and farming life.

There is criticism of some of the teachers, and old-fashioned styles of education which the author comes across. But even these are shown in context: sometimes schools were battling against prejudice, against children who hadn't any wish to learn anything, or parents who had no time to encourage their children at home. In general, though, the teachers are commended, and the schools shown as happy places for most of the children.

There are some very moving parts of the book too. By the time I was two-thirds of the way through it was difficult to put down, and I was sorry to reach the end.

Definitely recommended to anyone who knows anything about education and schools in the UK, or who would like to know more about them.