Guernsey Press

Re-writing history

BITTER child custody battles are commonplace here in the 21st century. The public have all but become immune to them.

Published
Stephen Foster, the historian who wrote the Guernsey-based Zoffany’s Daughter, published by Blue Ormer, founded by Guernseyman, Steve Foote. (19545462)

But back in the early 19th century, here on our tiny island, with the father a clergyman and the mother the daughter of a famous artist, such a court case would have been a cause célèbre.

The true story of Cecilia Zoffany and her battle to keep her children after separating from her estranged husband has been evocatively and creatively brought to life by Australian author Stephen Foster in his book Zoffany’s Daughter (subtitled Love and Treachery on a Small Island).

It is published by Blue Ormer, which was founded by Guernseyman Steve Foote.

Zoffany’s Daughter will be launched at the Guille-Alles Library on Tuesday 7 November at 7pm. The author will be there to give a talk and sign copies of the book, which will be for sale at a 20% discount.

All are welcome.