South Riding is a sweeping historical and social novel set in a fictional Yorkshire county in interwar England. The story follows ambitious headmistress Sarah Burton, her efforts to improve education and life in her community, and her evolving relationships with various residents — including the proud farmer Robert Carne and the gifted scholarship student Lydia Holly. Rich in insight, humour and empathy, the novel vividly portrays class, politics, gender roles, and social change on the brink of World War II. It also features introductions and commentary by Shirley Williams and others in some editions.