A review by the_reading_wren
A Year on our Farm. How the Countryside Made Me by Matt Baker

emotional informative inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced

3.75

A Year on Our Farm by Matt Baker was a really lovely read. Along with Baker’s TV series, the book tells the story of how a family rallied round to ensure the future of their farm. Interwoven with this narritive are Baker’s memories of growing up on the farm and how that shaped his career as the TV presenter and producer he is known as now. 

Baker also gives an insight into his relationship with his dylexia, and how he has met the difficulties and embraced the skills it brings in his career. I was a child when Baker made his TV debut on Blue Peter, so it was especially cool for me to read about how the show worked behind the scenes. 

A Year on Our Farm is an interesting read from a wildlife conservation standpoint too. The farm is an organic livestock farm with a focus on nature restoration, and the practical challenges and benefits of that are explored in the book. There are also some beautiful passages about the wildlife the farm is home to, and reflections on how vital connections with nature can be to our wellbeing. And Baker’s characterful illustrations add an extra personal touch to the pages.
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