Editor:
I haven't known Elizabeth Brown for very long, but from the first time I met her, I realized there is a very special woman living in our community. In her beautiful, proper English accent, she patiently answered my questions of how she came to Canada by merely saying she was a war bride and was quite coy about the rest. Following on with other questions, she told me the story was written down in a book called Old Stones written by her daughter Anthea.
I visited Sechelt library and sat down all day reading the book from cover to cover. How could I possibly explain in 300 words what this book is all about and the type of emotions you experience from one page to another? Perhaps if I were to say it's reminiscent of one of those series on television that leaves you yearning for more, this will give you an indication of what's in store. Beginning with Elizabeth's highly privileged youth to how she met Canadian Captain Brown and what the war years meant for them - a missing in action husband until the day a letter arrives Here is a woman transported from one world to another who has adapted beautifully to her beloved home she calls Canada.
With the help of the Internet, I was able to explore and view the grand old homes and family tree that is part of Elizabeth's background. Her story is one that films are made out of.
Elizabeth celebrated her 90th birthday last week, and she is an inspiration. I sincerely hope you have the pleasure of meeting her one day too, as I have.
A highly recommended read, Old Stones (A.S. Penne) is available at Sechelt library or Talewinds Books.
Lisa Johnson-Stott, Sechelt
