A review by queenclio
Shelter from the Machine: Homesteaders in the Age of Capitalism by Jason G. Strange

4.0

I would probably give this 4.5 stars if I could. The main reason I took off a star is mostly because I really wish there had been more emphasis on "homesteading as resistance," which was what drew me to the book in the first place. The final chapter covers that, and it does it well after a build up of solid context and history, but I would have loved deeper coverage on modern-day resistance next to the initial back-to-the-landers of the 60s. Overall this was a really strong book - a dive into the history of homesteading, the effects of capitalism and politics on homesteading and American life, effects of capitalism on education, literacy, and job prospects across the class divide, and why people choose homesteading as a lifestyle. It was very meaty while also remaining very accessible, which I know was one of the author's goals. I'm anxious to dive into the bibliography and read more on the subject.