This is a somewhat niche topic, but I found it an interesting read, especially because of the extensive use of Miss Jacob-Smith’s reports, and of accounts by former Land Girls, which give a real feel for the atmosphere within these hostels.

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History of War

As featured on The Women's Land Army

The Women's Land Army

The theme of the Women's Land Army in WWII has become a very popular subject with re-enactors and Home Front events would not be complete nowadays without at least one such display. The women who served in this organisation have gone largely unsung in the annals of history of WWII; indeed, it was not until 2015 that a memorial was erected to the WLA at the National Memorial Arboretum. But now, everyone has heard about them.

There have been books on the history of the WLA, but this work is different because it focuses on the work done by the women of Yorkshire who served in the ranks. It charts the hardships, the daily routine but, more importantly, the camaraderie shared by the ladies who came from all backgrounds and mixed ages. A charming book, full of insight and anecdotes, which will amuse and educate. This is social history on the Home Front.

Gun Mart - John Norris

I find accounts of what happened at home as interesting and engaging as accounts of the fronts on which the various battles were being fought. Marion Jefferies looks at the founding of the Land Girls in Yorkshire, with splendid accounts of how they were housed and treated by the various women who ran the hostels set up to provide them with shelter and meals. This is fascinating stuff, with plenty of material here to delight and anger in turn the readers who come to find it. Real life for these women was sometimes joyful, sometimes harsh - always interesting. A superb read.

Books Monthly - Paul Norman

As featured in

The York Press