Something Must Be Done A Bittersweet Novel of a 1930s Valleys Childhood

by Beale Polk, Dora

• ISBN13: 9781870206563
• ISBN10: 1870206568
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-07-01
• Publisher: Honno Press

Summary

A vivid recreation of the 1930s South Wales Valleys, this account centers on a daughter's attempts to protect her father. Viddie's tin-plate work father is determined to make London and the Royal Family understand the desperate poverty in South Wales. Viddie helps him write letters, make the first phone call of his life, and organize a protest march. When Edward VIII finally comes to Wales, her father's desperation drives him to take a wild risk, and only his daughter can see how dangerous the plan really is. This is a powerful story about the poverty, desperation, and humor of South Wales in the 1930s.

Author Biography

Dora Beale Polk was born in Pontnewydd, Monmouthshire and went to school in Pontypool. She studied in Cardiff during World War 2, taught English and was very active in the Labour party. She then moved to Colorado, married and has lived in the USA ever since. She is Emeritus Professor at California State University.