Mary Bunyan

This is a book I've been meaning to pick up for a long time and finally got around to it on our holiday in August. It is the story of John Bunyan's family and particularly his eldest daughter Mary who was blind. Written 200 years after the event, it begins with his arrest and subsequent imprisonment and describes the immense strain this put on his impoverished family. His wife (who was his second wife) went into premature labour with her first baby and eventually delivered a child who died shortly after birth. Mary Bunyan although still young (around 12yrs old) was a great help and support to her particularly in the care of the other 3 children. Within the story there is much sound spiritual conversation recounted and conversions described. The author also accurately portrays the political and religious climate of the times plus the difficult living conditions and the effects of the Great Plague.

I have to admit to finding the book hard going initially, probably because of the longwinded style of Victorian writings. However, after a slow start it improved and overall I found it a fascinating and informative read.
Mary Bunyan, by Sallie R Ford, published by Gospel Mission, £10.95

Lorna