OBSERVER: From Fields of Stone
A large crowd comprising family, friends and book lovers attended the launch of Isabel de la Rambelya’s historical novel From Fields of Stone at the Beaumaris Bowling Club.
For the past 20 years, inspired by her mother Olive’s stories of family history, Isabel has explored and recorded the life of her great-great grandmother, Nappy King.
Nappy was one of thousands of women transported to Van Diemen’s Land during the Irish Famine, and one of the few to bring a child with them.
Isabel’s research included personally visiting Ireland and photographing the book’s front cover image in Galway, plus several visits to Tasmania.
Her research revealed that Nappy worked as a servant in Clifden Castle, Ireland, before her years in Tasmania as convict, settler, landowner, mother, wife, and finally a patient in New Norfolk Insane Asylum.
From Fields of Stone was launched at the event by Melbourne writer, novelist and human rights advocate, Arnold Zable.
Arnold’s message on the back of the book’s cover reads: “A monumental work, epic in scope, heartbreaking and inspiring, propelled by a passionate quest to restore a woman’s life. Nappy King has been rescued from anonymity, her life honoured, her resourcefulness in the face of injustice meticulously documented and her defiant adventurous spirit celebrated.”
Congratulations to author Isabel de la Rambelya on this splendid outcome after her many years of hard work, determination and passion to publish her great-great grandmother’s story.
From Fields of Stone is currently available at Beaumaris Books or online at beaumaris-books.myshopify.com/products/from-fields-of-stone
Cheryl Threadgold
Pictured: Isabel de la Rambelya and Arnold Zable at the From Fields of Stone book launch at Beaumaris.
Photo: Malcolm threadgold