The Wide, Flat Land

On a long car journey to Norfolk, Little Jo’s repetitive chant, ‘We’re going to the wide, flat land, the wide, flat land, the wide, flat land,’ resonates through the car, much to her older brother’s annoyance. Hailing from Surrey, the siblings have always been enchanted by the charm of East Anglia’s countryside, their anticipation heightened by the nostalgic tales of their mother’s own childhood holidays on the north-east coast.

Upon arrival at their quaint holiday cottage, a chance encounter with a neighbour sets them on a path that will change their lives forever. The Pritchards are soon faced with the unsettling shadows of their mother’s past. Through this unexpected journey, they learn the essence of overcoming, the grace of empathy, and the power of loving support in encouraging others. Amidst the expansive tranquillity of the wide, flat land, they discover a healing peace, a calming beauty, a secure haven, and a renewed hope for the future of their extended family.

Sheila Longman is a retired teacher of modern languages, including English as a foreign language. She began writing novels during lockdown having only written some magazine articles and poetic meditations. After writing a memoir of her spiritual journey, she decided to use her experiences in education and worldwide travels to create family stories dealing with anthropology, racism, spirituality, mental health, art and belief systems, relationships and sexuality. She has followed courses in indigenous spirituality, Romanian and post-colonial theology. Relaxation is in art and crafts.