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janey's review against another edition
5.0
Lovely and so edifying -- the rewinding of the Knepp estate was slow and steady and rather miraculous. A book that would offer hope were it not for the future that is being created by certain states, what with a ban on ESG factors being considered as part of the investment decision of large public funds, among other things. How we could possibly make the difference even slightly like the one this couple has is beyond me.
duncbell's review against another edition
4.0
A really inspiring read, particularly if you've grown up in a farming family or community. A fascinating story, brilliantly told and so informative - it's worth the read purely for what you'll learn about British flora and fauna.
There is balance to the central argument and it's never too over bearing, except perhaps when making the case for grazed meat in our diets. Here it felt that the reader was being slightly force-fed the positive dietary science.
Another minor gripe is, the lack of self awareness at the privilege that enabled the family to change direction. Anyone from a more humble rural background, i.e. nearly everyone else, might find it hard to be taught a lesson amidst tales of polo matches and globe-trotting upbringings. Nevertheless, this isn't a major fault, more that I'd like to see how these lessons might be applied on more ordinary farms. Perhaps James Rebanks might be the man for the job.
There is balance to the central argument and it's never too over bearing, except perhaps when making the case for grazed meat in our diets. Here it felt that the reader was being slightly force-fed the positive dietary science.
Another minor gripe is, the lack of self awareness at the privilege that enabled the family to change direction. Anyone from a more humble rural background, i.e. nearly everyone else, might find it hard to be taught a lesson amidst tales of polo matches and globe-trotting upbringings. Nevertheless, this isn't a major fault, more that I'd like to see how these lessons might be applied on more ordinary farms. Perhaps James Rebanks might be the man for the job.
sjparker98's review against another edition
4.0
Excellent — if sobering — peak behind the curtain of the Knepp Wildland project in Sussex. Presents a hopeful view without shying away from the very real and very pressing emergency facing the UK and Europe. Very keen to visit and see how the project has developed in the 8 years since the book was written!
hannah_gunn's review against another edition
challenging
hopeful
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
5.0
thebookwormsfeast's review against another edition
5.0
I found this a fascinating listen - and it made me want to own a farm that I can rewild. The project sounds incredible, and it's so good to hear about the benefits being reaped and the return of nature. It was also intriguing to hear about how the countryside has evolved and the impacts that attitudes and legislation etc. have had on it, and our perceptions have skewed over what is natural for our "wild" places.
_minnie_'s review against another edition
Amazing to hear about the journey after staying on the estate for two weeks seeing everything firsthand! This book goes into intense detail and displays a deep and varied knowledge from Isabella.