Fun For The Good | Blog #2

My top six favourite examples of community in books and TV

From a pioneering family in 19th-century America, to wheeling and dealing in 1980s England, why I always come back to these community-centred stories.

I love stories based on good, warm relationships between family, friends and strangers.

You can never underestimate the importance of the simple act of having someone to talk to, or a place to go when the pendulum of life swings between lemonade and roses.

And, as someone who finds particular comfort in the simplicity of a time when the world wasn’t saturated with smart phones and social media, I love immersing myself in books and TV shows set in the past that reflect the benefit of a strong community.

So, I thought I’d share with you some of my favourites. Ordered by when each story is set, I hope these inspire you to think about what community means to you.

And if you’ve not heard of these stories before, perhaps you’ll find a new favourite book or TV show to indulge in!

Little House on the Prairie | Laura Ingalls Wilder | Book series (1932) and TV series (1974) | Starts in 1872, USA

Based on the early life of Laura Ingalls Wilder, this semi-autobiographical series focuses on the highs and lows of the Ingalls family’s quest to settle in the American Midwest.

It was adapted into the hugely successful TV series Little House on the Prairie in the 1970s, and features unforgettable characters like Pa (Charles), Ma (Caroline), Mary, Nellie Olsen and, of course, Laura.

What aspect of community in Little House on the Prairie do I like?

Firstly, it’s clear Laura’s family, friends and neighbours have a very strong bond. It was no picnic trying to settle in America at that time – amongst other issues, the Ingalls faced dangerous conflicts with the Native Americans and other settlers, the complete loss of income from natural disasters and near-starvation from months-long winters that saw temperatures drop to -40 degrees daily.

But through it all, they try as hard as they can to keep their spirits up, supporting each other when things go wrong and finding happiness in the little things.

The TV series expands on the themes in the book, perfectly casting Michael Landon as the loveable Pa and Melissa Gilbert as the effervescent Laura.

It sensitively touches on topics that transcend generations, often leaving viewers with a helpful reflection on how to navigate difficult times.

Can I read the books for free?
Yes, check out your local library.

Can I watch the TV series for free?
Not at the moment (as of March 2025).

All Creatures Great and Small | James Herriot | TV series (2020) | Starts in 1930s Yorkshire, UK

Just like Little House on the Prairie, All Creatures Great and Small also started off as a semi-autobiographical book series, based on the early veterinary career of James Herriot.

And it was also adapted for TV in the 1970s but it’s actually the 2020s remake I’ve fallen for.

Described by Radio Times as “the comforting cup of Yorkshire tea we all need”, it follows James as he settles into the somewhat eccentric household of veterinary surgeon Siegfried Farnon (played splendidly by Samuel West) and life as a rural vet in 1930s Yorkshire.

Once again, credit must be given to the casting agents, who chose the perfect ensemble to play James, Siegfried, his brother Tristan, housekeeper Mrs Hall and James’ love interest Helen.

What aspect of community in All Creatures Great and Small do I like?

While on the surface everything seems well, it soon becomes clear that each member of this unconventional household has their struggles.

But through simple gestures of friendship (or a swift pint at The Drover’s Arms!), they muddle through things together, facing the reality that, sometimes, things can’t always be fixed straight away.

Can I read the books for free?
Yes, check out your local library.

Can I watch the TV series for free?
Yes, on the Channel 5 website.

The Woolworths Girls | Elaine Everest | The Woolworths Girls book series (1-4) (2016) | Set in Kent, UK, during WW2

I come back to the first four Woolworths Girls books (I didn’t get on with the prequel or subsequent books) again and again.

Set throughout the duration of WW2, it follows Sarah Castleton as she starts work at Woolworths in the lead up to the war.

During the interview, she meets glamorous Maisie, fearful Freda, cheeky Alan and stern Betty. They, along with her nan Ruby and numerous other supporting characters, set the scene for a wonderful story about friendship, loneliness, loss, and triumph in the face of adversity.

What aspect of community in The Woolworth Girls do I like?

The anchor throughout this series is Ruby, who opens her home and heart to anyone who needs a place to stay or a shoulder to cry on. It navigates the tragedies and celebrations of all of the characters and shows that joy and misfortune affects everyone, no matter their age.

Can I read the books for free?
Yes, check out your local library.

Girls on the Home Front | Annie Clarke | Factory Girls book series (2019) | Set near Newcastle, UK, during WW2

Also set during WW2, this four-book series (I’m hoping for a fifth!) sits in contrast to the general financial prosperity of the characters in The Woolworth Girls.

Fran and her family and friends live in the northern coal mining village of Massingham during the 1930s and 40s. There’s very little money, which, along with family tragedy, inspires her and friends Sarah and Beth to sign up for dangerous war work in a bomb factory.

Throughout the series, we’re introduced to resilient men and women as they navigate life through the lens of war and duty.

What aspect of community in the Factory Girls series do I like?

The majority of the characters are very poor and initially seem to have limited opportunities for improving their circumstances.

But, despite this, the characters find joy in the small things. Whether it’s singing on the bus to the factory, having a boiled egg for dinner or celebrating at the local pub with homemade elderberry wine, friendship and community is the lynchpin for it all.

Can I read the books for free?
Yes, check out your local library.

The Darling Buds of May | H.E. Bates | TV series (1991) | Set in 1950s Kent, UK

Essentially playing a country Del Boy (more on him later), David Jason stars as the jovial Pa in this 1990s adaptation of the Larkin family saga by H.E. Bates.

Along with straight-laced Charley, who visits Pa to try and persuade him to sign a tax form (not likely), we follow the Larkins as they enjoy a life of farming, family and friendship in 1950s Kent.

With the loveable Ma (played by Pam Ferris) and beautiful Mariette (played by Catherine Zeta-Jones) complimenting Pa and Charley, you can’t help but be swept up in each episode.

What aspect of community in The Darling Buds of May do I like?

Throughout the series, you see Ma and Pa making sure characters dealing with isolation and loneliness are brought into the family-fold and made to feel a part of something. They show that a little kindness goes a long way in giving someone’s life purpose.

Only Fools and Horses | TV series (1981) | Starts in 1980s Peckham, London, UK

Last, but not least, we travel forward thirty years, to the world of Del Boy (David Jason), his brother Rodney (Nicholas Lyndhurst), Grandad and Uncle Albert.

Bursting with memorable characters (Boycie and Trigger, to name just a few) and lines like “this time next year, we’ll be millionaires,” this classic British comedy follows Del as he wheels and deals his way through life.

What aspect of community in Only Fools and Horses do I like?

Despite all the dodgy deals and shady money, community is at the heart of this series. You realise that the Trotters and their friends will always be there to celebrate each other’s wins and commiserate their losses.

Can I watch the TV series for free?
No, it’s only available to buy (as of March 2025).

So, those are my favourites – what are yours?

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