Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Review: Country Acres: Country Wisdom for the Working Landscape by David Larkin

Synopsis: Here is the successor to COUNTRY WISDOM, the first in David Larkin's series of handsomely illustrated and informative books about country ways and country life. COUNTRY ACRES takes the reader from the country house to its outbuildings - barns, sheds, cribs - and on to its gardens, fields, trees, and ponds. In his charming fashion, Larkin offers information and guidance for country-lovers of all levels of sophistication, explaining how fields get their size and shape; how best to use the tools of country work, from grub hoe to chainsaw; why you should (or shouldn't) grow potatoes; how to farm your trees and grow fish as a food source; and how best to pick and store your crops. All these and hundreds of other topics are covered in this artfully designed volume, with more than two hundred full-color photographs and drawings. Much more than a how-to book, COUNTRY ACRES is about the art of understanding the country. (from the back of the book)

Review: This was another estate lot acquisition. I waffled on whether to keep it. I'm glad I did. Full of marvelous photographs, it seems like it would be just another pretty picture book. But Larkin adds in excellent information, useful advice on soil, trees, vegetables and grass. He even has a section on farm animals and tractors! While I don't plan on moving to the country and starting a farm any time soon, I  enjoyed reading and dreaming about "what if?". I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the farming life. It would also make an excellent gift to the enthusiastic gardener in your life.

Bookmarks: 7 of 10

Awards: None

ISBN: 0-395-77188-9
Date Finished: 12-15-2013
Pages: 160

No comments:

Post a Comment