The sixth book in the Thrush Green series by Miss Read, Gossip From Thrush Green covers spring, summer and early fall in the rural Cotswolds. And although the inhabitants of Thrush Green are not looking for it, change is on the horizon. One of the biggest events in this book is that the old vicarage burns down due to faulty wiring. Charles Henstock and his wife Dimity are waiting to hear if a new home is going to be built for them, or if further changes will be made. Other changes are going to be coming for the village school as both teachers are planning their retirement. Babies are coming and some of the more elderly residents must learn to slow down and accept help in their daily lives.

Reading about this village is like taking a giant step back into the past. Although these books take place in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, one feels encased in a timeless, idyllic vacuum. The gossip in the title is mostly light hearted discussion between neighbours. One of my favourites was a discourse on the importance of afternoon tea.

I always enjoy my time spent in Thrush Green, but this book appears to be setting the readers up for changes that are going to come in future books, and although it is sad to read of some moving away and others facing health concerns one can take comfort in the fact that these people always look out for each other’s best interests. ( )