Country Matters: The Pleasures and Tribulations of Moving from a Big City to an Old Country Farmhouse : Book Review

"Country Matters: The Pleasures and Tribulations of Moving from a Big City to an Old Country Farmhouse" by Michael Korda is a delightful memoir that chronicles the author's experience of leaving the bustling city life in Manhattan and embracing a more tranquil existence in an old farmhouse in Dutchess County, New York. Korda's humorous and engaging storytelling style takes readers on a captivating journey of self-discovery and adaptation to rural living.

Divided into several chapters, each exploring different facets of his new country life, Korda brings to life the challenges and rewards of renovating an old farmhouse, tending to a beautiful garden, and caring for various animals. Through his vivid descriptions, he allows readers to experience the changing seasons and the breathtaking natural beauty of the countryside.

Korda also delves into the intricacies of small town dynamics and the relationships he forms with his neighbors. Often accompanied by amusing anecdotes, he highlights the quirks and occasional hurdles of living in close proximity to others, emphasizing the significance of community and the sense of belonging that can be found in rural areas.

Moreover, Korda reflects on the contrast between the slower pace of life in the countryside and the fast-paced city lifestyle he left behind. In his newfound simplicity and tranquility, he discovers a deeper appreciation for nature and the joy of disconnecting from the chaos of modern life. His musings on the importance of slowing down and finding solace in the beauty of the natural world will undoubtedly strike a chord with readers seeking respite from the frenetic cityscape.

In summary, "Country Matters" is a charming and heartwarming memoir that encapsulates the essence of country living. Korda's keen observations, delightful storytelling, and witty commentary make this book a truly enjoyable read. Whether readers are drawn to memoirs, fascinated by tales of rural life, or simply yearn for an escape from the bustling city, "Country Matters" promises to captivate and inspire.

What are readers saying?

"Country Matters" by Michael Korda has received a range of reviews from readers, with varying opinions on its quality. While some readers enjoyed the book and praised Korda's writing style, others felt that it fell short in certain areas.

Many readers found Korda's writing style to be enjoyable, describing it as witty and charming. They appreciated how the author's vivid descriptions and captivating storytelling transported them to the English countryside. Additionally, Korda's extensive knowledge and understanding of the subject matter were praised by many, as it allowed them to gain insights into rural life.

However, negative reviews highlighted some drawbacks of the book. Some readers felt that the narrative lacked depth and failed to hold their interest. They found the plot to be slow-paced and lacking in excitement, which made it difficult for them to fully engage with the story. Furthermore, a few reviewers commented on the lack of character development, finding the individuals in the book to be one-dimensional.

Another criticism mentioned by readers was the repetitive nature of the narrative. Some felt that certain themes and ideas were constantly reiterated, which became tiresome and affected their overall enjoyment of the book. Additionally, while Korda's writing style was generally pleasant, some readers found it occasionally long-winded and meandering.

Overall, "Country Matters" has received a mix of reviews. The positive aspects mentioned include Korda's charming writing style and his ability to immerse readers in the English countryside. However, negative reviews mentioned a lack of depth in the narrative, slow pacing, and repetitive themes. It is clear that this book may appeal more to those with an interest in rural life and descriptive writing, while others may find it less captivating.

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