Arnold Kellet's new Blind Jack book
Blind Jack of Knaresborough
by Dr Arnold Kellet
DR. ARNOLD Kellet has produced several excellent books over the past few years, including the definitive study of Mother Shipton, the eminently readable volume Historic Knaresborough, and important studies in Yorkshire dialect.
His new book Blind Jack of Knaresborough, recently published by the History Press at the ridiculously bargain price of 9.99, is – in my opinion – his masterpiece.
Blind Jack of Knaresborough tells the extraordinary story of the life and achievements of John Metcalf, the musician, drinker, gambler, horse dealer, military adventurer, trader, smuggler, and road builder.
To quote the Right Hon David Blunkett, MP, who attended the publication of Dr Kellet's latest book, "this book. . .is testament to the unequalled human spirit...This story is...of overcoming disability in the most amazing way. . .".
Time and again I found myself marvelling at the way Dr. Kellett has managed to unearth new material about one of the most elusive figures of Yorkshire history, and to present it in a systematic, logical manner which is far superior to anything yet written on the subject.
Space does not permit an examination of all of Dr. Kellett's interesting findings, but for me, the study of Blind Jack's road building activities is of the very greatest interest, and makes the whole subject understandable.
This book's notes are most thorough, and will aid those wishing to further investigate such things as the development of Yorkshire's turnpike roads.
An essential and invaluable book.
Malcolm Neesam
Blind Jack of Knaresborough, is published by the History Press, priced 9.99.
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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