Time to Play Shops: A Tribute to the WI Country Markets By Jo Major A delightful photographic exploration of the history and importance of the WI Country Markets, and their impact on local and more disparate communities. ISBN-13: 9780718830441 Specifications: 216x316mm, 112pp, Paperback Price: £12.50 • US$27.50 Publication: April 2005 Order this Title Now

About this Book

In this delightful book Jo Major takes the reader on a photographic journey around rural Britain to discover the thriving organisation that is the WI Country Markets. These markets provide local communities with a variety of wholesome produce, from eggs to meat, from fresh vegetables to jams and cakes. But this is not all. They are also venues for local craftsmen to sell their wares, and places where artists can find an outlet.

The author explores the history and importance of the markets and their impact on local and more disparate communities. This is a journey from their historic beginnings to the success they have now come to enjoy.

"This was no floundering activity, this was a modern organisation going like a steam train : fast enough, with character, steady reliability and an uncomplicated confidence that what they do, they can do better than anyone else"
from the Introduction

Reviews and Comments

"No-one, not even a fanatical gardener such as myself, can grow everything for the table themselves. Some things have to be bought in. For me, and all those who love good food, home-cooking and the honest flavours of the real stuff, these country markets are a delight. Along with all the gorgeous, scrumptious products, can be found freshness, seasonality and, as the antique experts say, 'provenance' (i.e., we know where it comes from) This book is likewise a feast reflecting the delightful choice and variation offered by these bastions of collective individualism, long may they continue. Read this book, be enthused and prepare yourself to eat and live better."
Bob Flowerdew, organic gardener and panel member of Gardeners' Question Time on BBC Radio 4

About the Author

Jo Major studied English and History of Art at Goldsmiths College, London, and a postgraduate degree in Photographic Studies at the University of Westminster. Introduced to the WI Markets by her mother who invited her to the local summer WI market's outing. Jo was astonished by the history of the organisation, and the enthusiasm of its members.

Inspired, Jo decides that the Market were a worthy topic for her final term dissertation. Many of her fellow classmates were visiting students, who chose to look at their own customs and traditions to find inspiration for their theses. As Jo learned more about the WI Markets she felt that this was a forgotten part of her heritage, and to introduce others to these neglected places and events she began her photographic journey around Britain.