Beatrix Potter: Her Lakeland YearsBy W R MitchellSpread over the 40 years that the author edited Cumbria magazine, these interviews recall memories stretching back to the time when Beatrix bought the now famous Hill Top farm at Sawrey in the heart of Lakeland. She was already internationally acclaimed for her series of 'Peter Rabbit' books and her local status was increased when she married William Heelis, a Hawkshead solicitor. The books gave her the means to purchase over 4,000 acres of land, which on her death in 1943 was bequeathed to the National Trust as her personal legacy to the Lake District.The many archive and present-day photographs in this fully illustrated book place a new light on the Lakeland years of Beatrix Potter. Pride of place is given to the breed of sheep that she did so much to foster ? her beloved Herdwicks.. Reviews This England, 12th August 2010 This book reveals much about Beatrix during the latter half of her life which she spent in the Lake District. By interviewing local people who knew Beatrix well, the author has compiled an insightful and fascinating portrait of his subject that also ca...Northern Echo, 13th July 2010 [The book] presents an intriguing picture of a woman who was a respected artist and an expert on mushrooms, as well as a best-selling author. But at times she resembled nothing more than one of her own creations... This is Beatrix Potter by the people ...Bradford Telegraph and Argus, 28th June 2010 Bill reveals a little-known aspect of Beatrix's life and times and unearths the essence of her as a person, not just a world-renowned children's author...The book is beautifully illustrated with lovely photographs and drawings of Beatrix, from a young ...
