Thatching is one of the world’s oldest crafts which means building a roof with dry plants such as straw, heather or sedge. On the Roof: A Thatcher’s Journey by Tom Allan explores man’s connection to the nature and land as well as the importance of tradition. Following his work in the office based environment, Tom has been working as a thatcher since 2012. In his book he embarks on a journey to discover history and future of thatching, travelling across various countries and meeting fellow master thatchers. With Tom we travel to Devon, Norfolk, Suffolk, the Scottish Hebrides, Denmark where we meet a Syrian refugee who found solace in this ancient craft. We further embark on a journey to the Netherlands, the Danube Delta and Japan where we meet a woman who mastered Japan’s 5000 year old thatching tradition.
I absolutely love this book. It is written with so much empathy, wisdom and passion. Thatching is depicted as a way of life that allows a sense of connection to the past, offering a sense of continuity and ‘enrooting’ in the present. On the Roof is also a profoundly moving ode to the beauty of a quiet life. This book moved me deeply and I feel so much admiration for all the real-life protagonists depicted in this book.
Thank you to a lovely team Profile Books for this gifted copy and to Tom Allan for sharing his story, passion and wisdom with us.
