Mary Barton

I've been reading this book, 'Mary Barton' by Elizabeth Gaskell over recent weeks for a Book Group. An account of life in the growing industrialisation of Manchester and the huge gap between rich and poor. Parts are harrowing descriptions of extreme poverty but the commitment of people to care for each other and share the little they have was amazing. Many of the poor had a strong faith in God which fuelled perseverance and acceptance. At our gathering everyone had enjoyed reading the book and our discussions together of the content were stimulating.