Crystal Spirit

the long version

Crystal Spirit is the story of David Hicks, arrogant and petulant son of a Welsh collier, set to escape the pit through education, but trapped into marriage and the hateful job of shopkeeper. Denied his freedom he grows to maturity through the Labour movement and his experiences as a volunteer in the International Brigade in the Spanish Civil War. Roger Granelli's first novel is a gripping and affecting story, persuasive and realistic, sympathetic in its portrayal of life in the Depression and full of remarkable scenes from the Spanish Civil War. Closely researched, Crystal Spirit brings to life a period which has almost slipped from memory. It is a moving testament to those who suffered in Wales and Spain, yet remained undefeated by the horrors of poverty and a brutal war.