Book Review Barbara Kingsolver

I just finished an older book I have been meaning to read from my personal library for a long time. I have set aside 9 books from my personal library to read in between book club choices and The Library Things early book review winnings.

Here is my review 5 stars

Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kinsolver for me is a story about 3 women trying to live true, honest lives going against some strong traditions and long held beliefs in the mountains of Appalachia. In each ones way they try to live in harmony with the way nature intends for life to unfold; Life, death, reproduction and just the wonder and beauty of the earth. Accepting the good, as well as the bad. I enjoyed the willingness of each of the women to see the natural way of things all around them each season and not try to change things but seek to be part of the ebb and flow of nature and find enjoyment in all the earth provides as well as learning to live with people who think different than you. Working with the land and the people not against them.


What I really enjoy about Barbara’s writing style is that she weaves a great story into an issue that is important to her without being preachy and offensive. She has a way of presenting both sides but helping nudge you to see her side. Having family from the Appalachia area, I related to the language and the ways of thought. If you are a hard core modern farmer or hunter you probably will have difficulty with the themes of this book but I feel it’s time we started taking a long hard look at what our greed is doing to our land and food supply. Also how mistrust and unacceptance is hurting our relationships with each other.

Over all, a great read I thoroughly enjoyed all the way through.

Next up I'm starting a book from The Library Thing
Life After Life by Jill McCorkle  available March 26, 2013