In the Shadow of Los Alamos

Edith Warner (1893-1951), who lived by the Rio Grande at the Otowi Switch in northern New Mexico, has become a legendary figure owing largely to her portrayal in two books: 'The Woman at Otowi Crossing' by Frank Waters and 'The House at Otowi Bridge' by Peggy Pond Church. Because she is famous for her tea-room, where she entertained scientists from the Manhattan Project, few people realise that Edith Warner was a serious writer. Here for the first time she is allowed to speak for herself. The book's title is taken from an autobiographical fragment published here for the first time. Also included are letters, essays published and unpublished, and journal entries (salvaged by various friends from the original, which was burned after Warner's death at her request). The editor provides a useful introduction outlining Edith Warner's life and sets it in local and historical context, along with a wonderful collection of period photographs and a facsimile of Edith's famous chocolate cake recipe.