The Girl From Old Nichol, the first novel of local author Betty Annand, will be available for purchase and signing at the Florence Filberg Centre on Jan. 22. Betty will be signing her books from 1:30-3 p.m. in the Rotary Room.
Annand’s novel begins with the birth of Gladys to two alcoholic rag pickers in Old Nichol, the notorious London slum in 1829. The story follows Gladys through many hardships and adventures as she manages to survive life in the slum, until she commits a violent crime in self-defence and is forced to escape, leaving her best friends behind.
Life away from the slum is filled with new challenges which Gladys manages to overcome with hard work, a beautiful singing voice and her own ingenuity. She works as a cleaning maid, a barmaid and a housekeeper as she meets many colourful characters, some kind and caring and some cruel and selfish.
Annand’s tale is filled with humour and historical interest. She brings her characters to life through their animated personalities and engaging dialogue. The Girl From Old Nichol has received excellent reviews from Good Reads and, once started, is hard to put down.
Because the book launch coincides with Annand’s 90th birthday, a cake cutting and simple birthday celebration will be held at the same time.
Light refreshments will be served in the Seniors Lounge and the cake cutting will be held at 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome!
Come and help celebrate Betty Annand’s first novel and 90th birthday!