It's always nice to get a book, map, film etc especially when it's about you favourite subject and for many Dartmoor is their main interest. Unfortunately, 2007 was not a particularly spectacular year for Dartmoor related publication and releases but nevertheless there were a few gems that sparkled amidst the void and those I have listed here. Any of them would make for an ideal Christmas present which would provide enjoyment for any Dartmoor lover or come to that a present for anytime of the year.

Exploring Around Burrator - Paul Rendell.

In my opinion this is the best Dartmoor book to have come of the presses in 2007. It examines the lost farms in the Burrator area in a comprehensible and enjoyable manner which for such a subject could easily have ended up as a boring list of facts. There are two walks included in the book which when followed will give the reader not only the written history of a disappearing landscape but also the reality of today.

Dreams of the Road - Martin Levinson & Avril Silk.

This is a fascinating book that explores the lifestyles and traditions of the Romany people in Devon told by people that actually experienced a travelling life in Devon and on Dartmoor. This is the sort of book that once you start reading it you are loathe to put it down, every page is fascinating and hey, even I get a mention.

Exploring a Dartmoor Valley - Meldon Beneath our Feet - Peter Keene.

This is an updated guide to the Meldon Valley which examines the landscape from and industrial, historical and geological viewpoint. There are some suggested walk with maps and also mention of the wildlife to be found in the valley.

Widecombe Fair - The Widecombe & District Local History Group.

If you want to learn about the history of Widecombe Fair then this is the book to read. Every aspect of it's history is explained and not a detail is omitted. There are ample illustrations, photographs and old posters to add some reality to the story. All in all an excellent book.

All Saints Church and St. James' Chapel, Okehampton - Alan Endacott.

A very interesting read that looks at the histories of the two Okehampton churches but also encompasses much of the social and historic events that occurred throughout the ages. I would say that no Dartmoor library would be complete without a copy of this book.

Water Catchment East Dartmoor, "More Value than Gold" - Stafford Clark

Here is a book that I only found by accident when in Lustleigh post office, as yet I have read no review of it but what a gem. If there is one subject that has been neglected on Dartmoor it's the history of the reservoirs and here we have a publication that takes a step down that road. Although the text is sadly lacking there is a wealth of old photographs contained within its pages. There is even a map included although the author's cartography skills leave something to be desired.

American Prisoners at Dartmoor War Depot - Trevor James.

This publication looks at yet another aspect of the prison at Princetown, this time it's the turn of the American prisoners of war who during their stay were subjected to many hardships. Although this is a small book it's packed full of relevant information which at times can be quite saddening.

Okehampton and North Dartmoor Reproduction Map.

This series of maps builds into an ideal collection that gives an insight into Dartmoor's past and changes since the times of the Industrial Revolution and are ideal for historical research or for sheer enjoyment. The unique thing about these maps is that the originals have been enlarged so that the old scales now match those of the modern Landranger maps (1:50,000) which makes comparisons a lot easier. This particular map covers from Okehampton to Tavistock and across to Bovey Tracy.

Plymouth and Launceston Reproduction Map.

As above except this map covers the from Yelverton to Tavistock and down to Cornwood, there is some overlapping with the Okehampton map.

Torbay and South Dartmoor Reproduction Map.

Again, as above with this map covered the rest of Dartmoor, namely from Ashburton to Ivybridge and the central area of Dartmoor. This map overlaps with the tow previous ones.

A Stranger at Burracombe - Lilian Harry.

The latest novel to come into the ongoing saga of life in the fictional Dartmoor village of Burracombe during the 1950s, if you like easy, nostalgic stories then this book will effortlessly transport you back to the Dartmoor of yesteryear.

A Cottage on Dartmoor - Silent Movie.

This film was first released in 1929 when it told the story of a jealous barber, the love of his life and a young farmer who gets a closer than expected shave which results in the barber being sent to Dartmoor prison. A few years later he escapes and goes in search of his lost love who by now has married the farmer and from there the plots evolves. This silent film has earned itself something of a cult status hence its new release onto DVD.

08/12/2007