The Jolly Poker

Raymond B. Blake is an assistant professor of history at Mount Allison
University in New Brunswick.

This is only one of many books published each year by Harry Cuff
Publications in St. John’s. The books, usually of local interest, are
often displayed in various outlets in communities scattered throughout
the province. In large part, they make a valuable contribution to the
vibrant local culture.

This short, rambling little book—its 96 pages include more than 60
photographs—describes the living conditions in rural Newfoundland and
Labrador in the 1930s and 1940s. Seventeen short chapters deal with
topics as diverse as transportation, death, and gossip. Although life
was difficult in this often harsh environment, the people, as
characterized in this interesting portrait, were largely satisfied with
their lives.

The book should appeal to anyone interested in the social conditions in
pre-Confederation Newfoundland—yet it merely scratches the surface.
The publisher should encourage its authors to develop their ideas
further and to provide more detail to substantiate their arguments. A
good editor could help local authors accomplish this and thereby bring
more credibility to these local memoirs. Authors like Francis Patey have
great stories to tell and interesting perspectives to share.