A Cornish journey or not?
Tim Hannigan’s The Granite Kingdom (£) is a reflective and beautifully written exploration of Cornwall, weaving together its geology, people, myths, and cultural identity. Structured around a journey on foot from the Tamar Valley to Penwith, the book offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural insights, revealing the toughness of Cornwall’s people; tough as the granite that defines much of its landscape.
Hannigan’s writing is thoughtful and evocative, drawing readers into Cornwall’s windswept coastlines, rugged moors, and ancient legends. His reflections on the region’s history, from its industrial past to its evolving identity, make for fascinating reading, especially for those with an interest in Cornwall’s deeper layers. Having spent time in Cornwall myself, I found his descriptions vividly evoking familiar places and landscapes.
However, those expecting a traditional travelogue focused on the journey itself may be a little disappointed. While Hannigan’s walk provides the framework, the emphasis is less on the journey and more on the cultural and historical commentary that springs from it. This makes The Granite Kingdom more of a social history wrapped in the guise of a travel book.
That said, the book remains engaging and insightful. In The Granite Kingdom (£), Hannigan captures the spirit of Cornwall with a depth and sensitivity that sets it apart from more conventional travel narratives. It will appeal most to readers with a love for all things Cornish, from its storied past to its enduring sense of place. If you’re looking for prose about hiking along granite paths moorlands or windswept clifftops, this might not be the book for you. However, if you want to understand the soul of Cornwall, it’s well worth the read.
