Crete - A Notebook: Journeys Through a Mystical Landscape by Richard Clark

by Richard Clark

In 1982, on a whim, the English journalist Richard Clark upped sticks and left the country of his birth to go and work as a teacher in Crete. So began a love affair with the island to which he still returns as often as possible. Crete - A Notebook is a series of snapshots of his experiences on an island he has grown to cherish. It is less of a travel guide and more of a traveling companion. Whether a regular visitor or a first time traveler there, this book provides an invaluable insight into life past and present on this exquisite island. The author is a writer, editor and journalist who has worked on an array of national newspapers and magazines in the UK. He is married with two grown up children and lives in Kent. Richard Clark is also the author of The Greek Islands – A Notebook 'My library contains almost all of the noteworthy books about Greece and her islands and this will be a welcomed addition. I will place it next to my collection of books by the late and great Patrick Leigh Fermor, because I think Richard Clark’s writing is as close to Fermor as we will ever come again.' Aurelia Smeltz, author 'Labyrinthine Ways', 'A Lone Red Apple'

Genres: Travel

Paperback

First published July 12, 2012

Reviews

[Tammy Horvath · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is perfect for people that want to know all about Crete, although it went into a little more detail than I liked, even though I want to visit the island of Elafonisi someday. The author has a way with words; I felt I was right there with him. This book would be perfect for reading when I visit the island. This book has everything from Crete’s sea life, food, dancing, and culture. I loved learning about the 1.5 million Greek ancestors that later emigrated elsewhere. But I don’t think I’m brave enough to drive on the roads of the country that tops the European Community chart for the most road deaths, even if I’m wearing the required helmet on my moped.

But the most fascinating part of Crete: A Notebook was learning about their involvement in the second World War, which ultimately led to their liberation in 1944. If you are planning a trip to Greece, this book is for you. Otherwise, travel from the comfort of your couch.

Since I am a Christian with strong faith, I love that Greece is a deeply religious country. The freedom to hold any belief is in their constitution. Although I do not agree with many of their beliefs, I like that they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus with fireworks.

[Sally Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should come with a warning: if you're reading while you're planning your first trip to Crete, you will very likely end up adding days to your itinerary! That's what happened to me, anyway.

A great read - can't wait to get to the next two in the series.

[John Manuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard Clark's travel books are all a joy to read. I live on Crete and this book is not only a beautiful read, but it's enhancing my experience of the island I've made my home. Highly recommended.

[Isla McKetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's time to get working on both your summer reading list and your vacation planning. This delightful book will help you do both (with some wonderful storytelling and history lessons along the way). Read all about it in my full-length review: Escape and learn with Richard Clark.

[Cristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the book. Review to follow on greecelogue.com

[Evi Routoula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel a little bit ashamed but Richard knows better than me Crete! It is a must read for everyone who wants to visit the island or for everyone who wants to know things about Greece.