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Letter: The Bells on Finland Street meant much to newcomer in 1951

Book has brought a lot of satisfaction, and has been reread many times
Letter to the Editor
LynnCookSized
Evelyn Margaret Waddell, also known by her pen name of Lyn Cook, passed away July 14 in author. She was the author of the 1950 children's book “The Bells on Finland Street,” which was set in Sudbury. (Supplied)

I am extremely interested in the article about “The Bells on Finland Street” in the Aug. 9 issue of Northern Life.

This book has meant a great deal to me since I was 12 years old. It was the first book I could read in English after coming to Canada from Holland in 1951. Speaking only Dutch at the time, I missed being able to read anything dreadfully.

Reading had been my passion since I learned to read in Grade 1 in Holland. Finding this book at the Creighton Mine Public Library and devouring it was an immense satisfaction and sense of achievement. 

I have never forgotten Lyn Cook's name and have reread her book many times throughout my life, with enjoyment. I am glad to know that she lived such a very long life and to discover her real name after all these years.

Erna de Burger Fex
Sudbury