Folksy hyperbole, but lots of interesting things about farming that I didn't know. I also like his pragmatic approach--this is freaking hard work, and you'll likely need a job outside of it.
It's interesting to read a book on gardening and/or farming from the 1970s. But this one had quite a bit of timeless knowledge, wise predictions (that are coming true, go figure), and a good dose of nonsense. Because that's fun. This book is basically just stories from Mr. Logsdon's experience farming on his two-acre lot. More often than not, he describes his failures and odd endeavors that didn't quite turn out right... but he also manages to impart to the reader lots of information on what did and will work. But his writing seems completely random sometimes. For example, at one point he launches into a subdued rant about how the weatherman gets paid a lot to tell lies, etc. then he fills a page and a half with old wives' tales and folk beliefs about weather and how to predict it. Some of them are legit, and some aren't and he says so. Even if I didn't get any good info about farming from this book (which I did, but it's hard to put a finger on exactly what I learned....), I would have enjoyed it as a conglomeration of stories and quips about life and controversy.
Easy read about living off your own land. This book is perfect for the mini farmer and people that want to be more self sustained. Mentions keeping large animals, pigs, chickens on 1 or 2 acres of land. Also talks about making a small profit from your land. Perfect if your interested in living a more organic lifestyle.
I'm so sad to have completed this book. It has been quite enjoyable to read about making the most of a 2-acre farm. Though 40 years old, the book is still full of amazing practical tips and advice - from life philosophy to re-using excrement. Besides, age isn't a problem when speaking of old, time-tested farm practices. The author is humorous, practical, and idealistic.
I'm slowly getting through this. Gene Logsdon sounds like a cranky old man even back when this book was written. Lots of interesting stuff on the experience of having a farm and trying to produce some of your own food. Many of his comments reveal that not much has changed since the 1970s.
This is a witty and humerous book as well as an information source. Although the gardening and homesteading parts are not very comprehensive, only based on his selective experience at his locale. The author also has quite some sharp social and political opnions.
Enjoyable and light-hearted while still managing to be informative. Easy, quick read for anyone wanting to know how to grow more on their small piece of land. A bit dated, but the prophetic aspects more than make up for its age.
Light reading, easily digestible. Some wonderful nuggets of information, like how to cure a ham, interspersed among anecdotes and practical advice as well as how the author has approached different parts of the homesteading adventure.