sharon_geitz's review
4.0
Exquisite prose, a beautiful read about a disturbing topic; environmental degradation through factory farming and one man's rebellion against the conformity of modern farming. Loved this book so much I have ordered Meadowland. A great nature read.
allpresssian's review
4.0
I really loved this book and never even imagined I would read and enjoy a book on farming!
alexsbradshaw's review
5.0
A really wonderful book that was both beautiful and poignant.
I think a well-timed book that looks at farming, its effects on nature, and how taking a step back from the mega-efficient-industrial farms now.
John Lewis-Stempel looks at his new field through the lense of someone who has worked with the land for many years and loves it deeply. It's a wonderful read to get to be able to experience that closeness, to find out the history behind some traditions, and also see that although the yield may be slightly less there are methods of farming that encourage wildlife instead of blotting it out with pesticides.
I think a well-timed book that looks at farming, its effects on nature, and how taking a step back from the mega-efficient-industrial farms now.
John Lewis-Stempel looks at his new field through the lense of someone who has worked with the land for many years and loves it deeply. It's a wonderful read to get to be able to experience that closeness, to find out the history behind some traditions, and also see that although the yield may be slightly less there are methods of farming that encourage wildlife instead of blotting it out with pesticides.
andreairashea's review
4.0
Took a while to get into and finish it, but I think I've found my English Barry Lopez. Wonderful, evocative writing. If I found it mildly depressing, it isn't his fault - it's simply a fact that our natural habitats are declining everywhere, not just in England. At least he's giving an honest estimation of what we still have, and how little it would take to bring back some of what we've lost.