A Review By Zoe Boulton
Chevalier’s latest novel is based on the real lives of two fossil hunters living in Lyme Regis in the early 19th century. The eldest is Elizabeth Philpot, a mildly eccentric spinster who has moved to the town from London with her two sisters after their brother married. There she develops a hobby in fossil hunting along the beach, and meets a young Mary Anning who combs the beaches and cliffs in search of “curies” to sell to tourists.
The pair strike up a friendship, and under Elizabeth’s tutelage, Mary realises the importance of the long-dead creatures, and goes on to spot larger fossils which draw the attention of the male-dominated collecting and scientific communities.
This is a beautifully written novel, which draws on themes of sexism, loneliness, spinsterhood and friendship. As ever with Chevalier’s work, there is an excellent sense of place and a vivid atmosphere, I really felt as though I was walking along the beach with the wind in my hair. A fantastic summer read.
