Charles Ritchie, one of Canada's most distinguished diplomats, was a born diarist, a man whose daily record of his life is so well written that it leaps from the page. In wartime England, Ritchie, as Second Secretary at the Canadian High Commission, served as private secretary to Vincent Massey, whose second-in-command was Lester B. Pearson, future prime minister of Canada. In a perfect position to observe both statecraft and the London social whirl that continued even during the war, Ritchie provides a fascinating, ...
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Charles Ritchie, one of Canada's most distinguished diplomats, was a born diarist, a man whose daily record of his life is so well written that it leaps from the page. In wartime England, Ritchie, as Second Secretary at the Canadian High Commission, served as private secretary to Vincent Massey, whose second-in-command was Lester B. Pearson, future prime minister of Canada. In a perfect position to observe both statecraft and the London social whirl that continued even during the war, Ritchie provides a fascinating, perceptive, and (surprisingly) humorous picture of the London Blitz - the people in the parks, the shabby streets, the heightened love affairs - and the vagaries of the British at war. There are also glimpses of the great, and portraits of noted artists and writers that he knew well. A vivid document of a period and a wonderful piece of writing, "The Siren Years" has become a classic.
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Seller's Description:
Fair. Noticeably used book. Text is legible but may be soiled and have binding defects. Heavy wear to covers and pages contain marginal notes, underlining, and or highlighting. Possible ex library copy, with all the markings/stickers of that library. Accessories such as CD, codes, toys, and dust jackets may not be included.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Standard used condition. May have some wear, highlighting, notes, creasing, previous owner's name, etc (the dust cover may be missing). Fast & reliable delivery. Exceptional customer service. May ship from alternate location depending on your zip code and availability.
This is a well written account of a Canadian diplomat's experience in London during World War II. Besides living through the Blitz he becomes close friends with the writer Elizabeth Bowen and meets other interesting Brits such as Diana Cooper. The reader can experience his living accommodations, champagne parties and the passage of the seasons.
