The Year of the Goat: 40,000 Miles and the Quest for the Perfect Cheese : Book Review

"The Year of the Goat" is an captivating memoir penned by Margaret Hathaway, where she takes readers on a transformative journey of raising and nurturing her own herd of goats. With profound insights and a genuine love for sustainable living, Hathaway shares her experiences, challenges, and joys of tending to these remarkable animals.

Throughout the pages of this remarkable book, Hathaway provides a detailed account of her exploration into all facets of goat-keeping. From the initial process of selecting and acquiring her first goats to the intricate art of milking, cheese-making, and even goat-meat production, she leaves no stone unturned in depicting her immersive journey into goat farming.

One of the most endearing aspects of "The Year of the Goat" is Hathaway's ability to bring the goats to life with her vivid and evocative descriptions. Each goat possesses a unique and distinctive personality that plays a prominent role in shaping the narrative. This aspect of the book makes it a delightful read for animal lovers and individuals intrigued by sustainable farming practices alike.

What sets this memoir apart is Hathaway's honest and heartfelt storytelling. Her anecdotes and genuine reflections provide a truly authentic portrayal of her life among the goats. The writing style is both descriptive and accessible, allowing readers to form a deep connection with Hathaway and gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate nature of farming and self-sufficiency.

"The Year of the Goat" extends beyond being just a memoir, as Hathaway profoundly contemplates the significance of nurturing and cherishing nature and the animals that sustain us. Her unwavering passion and devotion to living in harmony with the land make this book an inspiring and educational read for anyone interested in sustainable living and seeking fresh perspectives on farming practices.

What are readers saying?

"The Year of the Goat" by Margaret Hathaway has received a range of reviews. Some readers found the book informative and well-researched, while others felt it lacked depth and failed to fully engage them.

Several reviewers praised the educational aspect of the book, highlighting Hathaway's thorough exploration of goats and their significance in various cultures. They appreciated the extensive knowledge presented and enjoyed learning about different breeds, goat farming practices, and the historical and mythological roles of goats.

However, some readers felt that the book lacked depth and failed to delve into certain topics. They believed that more detailed information and analysis could have been provided, particularly regarding the environmental and ethical issues surrounding goat farming. These reviewers were left wanting a more thought-provoking and critical examination of the industry.

Additionally, some readers found the writing style of "The Year of the Goat" to be dry and uninspiring. They struggled to stay engaged and felt that the book lacked a coherent narrative. The organization of the material was also mentioned as haphazard, making it challenging to follow the flow of the book.

Despite these criticisms, there were also positive reviews praising Hathaway's storytelling ability and personal anecdotes throughout the book. Readers enjoyed hearing about the author's own experiences raising goats and found these moments to be the most engaging aspects of the narrative.

YearOfTheGoatBook MustRead AnimalFiction