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NIGHTINGALE OF THE NORTH

Amy Louise Peyton.

St. John's, Jesperson Press, c1983.
210pp, paper, $9.95.
ISBN 0-920502-25-3.


Grades 9 and up.
Reviewed by Sally Davis.

Volume 12 Number 5
1984 September


The author of this thoroughly researched account of Georgina Twillingate Stirling's life is to be commended. If the author, who also lived in Twillingate, had not undertaken this task, the life of a very great singer who lived from 1867 to 1935 would probably have gone unrecorded.

What makes this book outstanding is that it presents the historical background leading up to the time when Georgina was born. Then it traces the genealogy from the arrival of Georgina's ancestors when they put down roots in Newfoundland in the seventeen hundreds, and those were the days of big families.

At the beginning of the book it is mentioned that Georgina lost her singing voice "at the peak of her triumph." The reader is kept in suspense as to why until the end of the account. The fact that Georgina becomes an alcoholic is handled with utmost sensitivity.

The illustrations consist of family photos, pictures of Twillingate, and the parts of Europe where Georgina lived, and copies of some of the programs for Georgina's many concerts.

In Newfoundland, the older generations will treasure this book for its memories; for those growing up today in Newfoundland, the life of this illustrious woman can serve as an inspiration. In general, historians, sociologists, and musicians will find this scholarly and beautifully written account one of interest.

There were a few typographical errors that slipped into the text, but on the whole this young publishing house has improved its production skills.


Sally Davis, St. John's, NF.
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