I GO BY SEA, I GO BY LAND

by P. L. Travers ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 21, 1941

The creator of Mary Poppins must be the ""Pel"" in the story, told in the form of a diary written by an 11-year old English girl, of the break with the old home in England, the journey over sea and land, to a new world, to be a guest in the home of an American unt, ""for the duration"", ""Pel"" is the chaperon, a lovable, understanding friend of the family, a bit distrait and scatterbrained, but a perfect companion for a dangerous voyage, an ideal ""buffer"" against the impact of newness and strangeness and homesickness, a good guide to finding out the ways in a new environment. Imagination, charm, and sheer g characterize the children of the story, the young diarist, Sabrina, and her younger brother, James, and their shipmates. The whirl of all the early months over here keep them from fully facing the break with home -- though they long for a chance to be alone and themselves, now and then. The story winds up with a glorious birthday party -- and a sudden ""growing up"" as they get the news that the beloved landmark of home has been destroyed. The story has the earmarks of personal experience and intimate knowledge and sympathy with the child viewpoint. The ideal book for a double market -- as it should help Americans, young and old, to bridge the gap with their English guests. P.L. Travers has a heart-warming faculty for bringing tears and laughter.

Pub Date: May 21, 1941

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harper

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1941

Categories: NONFICTION