I was immediately put in mind of
Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates when I first saw this card. It was one of my favourite childhood books and tells the story of a Dutch boy who desperately wants to win a speed skating race. I am a little dismayed to find out that the author had never visited the Netherlands before writing the story but not enough to spoil the memory of a great childhood read. I see the complete story is available on line but I can't decide whether or not to re-read it. Would I be disappointed?
According to the person who sent the card, ice-skating is one of the unofficial national sports in the Netherlands. It doesn't happen every year but once every three or four winters the temperature drops enough for the canals to freeze enough to allow skating. A most picturesque ice rink!
I also loved the book, and had no idea the author had never been there. Hmmm. I'm going to try to forget that. I am buying ice skates this year though. So much more convenient than renting.
ReplyDeleteWhere I live the temps never drop past the teens so I could not identify with anywhere that freezes over.
ReplyDeleteI am sure I would spend more time on my bum than upright if I ever tried ice skating! It's one of my favorites in the Olympics, though.
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