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kcrouth's review
5.0
This is my first taste of Wendell Berry's rich fictional world of Port William KY. This tale is the told through a series of remembrances of a crusty old farmer, interleaved with his interactions with the people and events of the present. The character of "Old Jack" is a strong yet flawed, deeply human old farmer who is among of the last of his generation. Jack's life has been spent stubbornly fighting for his independence and for his ties to his land and surrounding country that he both loves and belongs to. This tale is a wonderful incarnation of the wholesome and healthy philosophy that Mr. Berry espouses and lives out in his life and writings. I am looking forward to more tales of this richly human community.
suebrownreads's review
5.0
Enjoyed this book very much, except the last couple of chapters. I felt the author should have ended the book a little sooner. I loved the writing, and how the author portrayed Jack's memories.
vmwierz's review
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
sharon_b's review
hopeful
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
christinerose's review
4.0
After Nick Offerman raved about Wendell Berry I’ve had an eye out for his work at used bookstores. When I eventually found this book I didn’t even glance to see what it was about and had the rare experience of going into a novel with very few expectations. It’s beautifully written, and reminded me of a somber, adult, and masculine version of the little house on the prairie books I loved as a kid. Not exactly a page turner, but definitely philosophically compelling. My main complaint is the way in which women are often shunted to the sidelines.
rbrack20's review
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
kristidurbs's review
5.0
A book full of beautiful melancholy, the remembrances of one man's life failures, regrets, and ashen hopes. Old Jack is yet another bewitching Berry masterpiece of writing.
bourbonandabook's review
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75