Twelve Stories for Twelve Sections : An Anthology of Short Fiction Inspired by Cornwall's Protected Landscape

by Cornwall National Landscape, Gareth Rees, James Innerdale (illustrator)

These beautifully-illustrated stories have been inspired by Cornwall’s culture and heritage, but there is one source of inspiration that arguably sits above all others – the Cornish landscape. In the spirit of Cornwall’s storytelling tradition, Cornwall National Landscape brings an anthology of wonderful stories by 12 of Cornwall’s most gifted authors inspired by the 12 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) that make up the protected landscape in Cornwall. Taking you on a journey across Cornwall, from Hartland in the North to West Penwith in the deep south, these diverse stories – comic, dark, deep, tragic, human – will ultimately make you want to pull on your walking boots and set off to encounter the epic beauty of the Cornish landscape face-to-face.

Cornwall National Landscape (AONB) is unique in that it is a single designation made up of twelve separate sections. This project commissioned writers based in Cornwall to create short stories situated in the protected landscape. Each writer was guided through their assigned section and given creative freedom to let their imagination weave a narrative. This collection showcases the cultural heritage of the protected landscape to inspire, connect and engage with audiences from Cornwall, and beyond.

Kindle Edition

Published April 26, 2024

Reviews

[Paul Taylor-McCartney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful anthology, which takes its inspiration from the designated sections of the Cornwall National Landscape, took me on a journey through time and 'place'. Each story and voice is so unique, you never know what you are going to discover as you turn the next page. Funny, thoughtful and deeply moving at times, this stayed with me long after the final page. It is also beautifully illustrated throughout. A triumph.

[Alan Roberts · Rating 3 out of 5]

This collection of short stories by Cornish and Cornwall-based authors reminded me how many talented writers live in the South West. Like all anthologies, Twelve Stories for Twelve Sections is a mixed bag - some stories were wonderful, whilst I didn't gel with others - but then, that's the nature of these books. Even when a collection is by a single author, you still walk away with favourites and a few you didn't like at all - that was the case here.
The stories that moved me or drew me in were Polly Roberts' (no relation) - her short story Trading Places was my 'cup of tea'. I found it to be thoroughly relatable, engrossing and authentic without the need for purple prose. I loved it and could have easily read a longer story in her style and voice. Other favourites were Lone Cypress by Philip Marsden, Perran In The Sands by Emma Timpany, and The Incidents by Wyl Menmuir. Some of the authors mentioned are unfamiliar to me, but I'll certainly keep an eye out for their work in the future. This book is a great introduction to writers in the South West of England, and Hermitage Press is an important player in providing a platform for new and established Cornish and Cornwall-based authors. Long may they endure :)

PS: I read the hardback edition

[Tansy Hepton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great idea, well executed. As with most short story anthologies, they are mixed in style so different ones will appeal to different people. For me, the standout ones were Philip Marsden's Lone Cypress and Annamaria Murphy's The Returners but each one created a sense of place and highlighted the wonderful places and people of Cornwall. And it's great to show off the range of current Cornish authors.
I was less keen on the illustrations, which I thought better suited to a children's book, but that's a matter of personal taste.

[Sally Hawker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is real literature. A skilfully mastered set of short fiction stories that really evokes the drama and mystique of wild Cornwall, it's landscape and its people. The tales are surprising and intriguing, after the tradition of the great Celtic campfire storytellers of days long past. The imagery is abstract and evocative. Highly recommended.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to follow.