[Numerous different types of book were proposed. Poetry, novels, memoirs, essays, journals, scientific works. Several historical studies were recommended, including Angus Winchester's Harvest of the Hills, an examination of the pastoral culture of the Border regions during the medieval and early modern periods. It is a book, its advocate wrote,] which details the close interrelations between work and place, as well as broadening into the history and archaeology of the landscape ... Collis's experience as a land worker during the second world war on two farms in the south-east and south-west of England. He paints a rich picture of the way in which farms were run in the years prior to the major revolution brought by mechanisation, and introduces memorable characters from amongst the substantial manual labour force even modest-sized farms needed.

John Stewart