Davy Reid's story about The Yellow on the Broom
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Author: Betsy Whyte
SynopsisBetsy Whyte was born into a family of travellers who roamed the Scottish countryside between the wars. The summers were the best times, out on the open road, while the winters were spent in houses, pining for the first sign of spring - the yellow on the broom.
My Story
My Auntie Faye had always went on about Betsy White's books, trying to get me to read them, but I just never seemed to have the time.
My Auntie died and a time had passed. I was in an airport newsagent browsing the books and came upon 'The Yellow on the Broom.' I picked it up and read the first page. Then the second, and third, fourth, fifth...I nearly missed my flight. I was totally engrossed in Betsy's story. I love this book and Betsy's sequel 'Red Rowan's and Wild Honey' above any others. These are books which are, in the wide scheme of things, little known treasures which deserve to be shown in their glory. The simple, but hard life portrayed by Betsy transports me back every time I read her words. Our society could learn so much from Betsy and her people, but we're too busy trying to get one over on the Jones', or trying to fill up our bank accounts. Sad.
I truly love this book and it is a friend which never lets me down. Changed my life? Maybe not, but it feels like a wee gift from my Auntie, one she tried to give me in her living years and which I failed to accept. Glad Betsy's books found me eventually.
God bless my Auntie and Betsy.
