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Against the Grain
A tyrannical high school principal.
A young anarchist with nothing left to lose.
One way or another, this place is goin’ down.
Matt Moyer is an orphaned teen growing up on a primitive farm in the Pennsylvania coal region. He’s homeschooled by his eccentric and philosophical great-uncle, who’s a stickler for logic, reason, and intellectual honesty. Despite his uncle’s reverence for veracity, inconsistencies arise regarding the old man’s shady past and the teen’s parents.
Through a harrowing sequence of events, Matt is forced to attend a public school. The feral teen finds it difficult to cope with the hypocrisy, propaganda, and misinformation that adults and children so readily accept. Faced with the possibility of expulsion, arrest, and ostracism, he must make a choice. Will he choose the easy lie or the hard truth?
A young anarchist with nothing left to lose.
One way or another, this place is goin’ down.
Matt Moyer is an orphaned teen growing up on a primitive farm in the Pennsylvania coal region. He’s homeschooled by his eccentric and philosophical great-uncle, who’s a stickler for logic, reason, and intellectual honesty. Despite his uncle’s reverence for veracity, inconsistencies arise regarding the old man’s shady past and the teen’s parents.
Through a harrowing sequence of events, Matt is forced to attend a public school. The feral teen finds it difficult to cope with the hypocrisy, propaganda, and misinformation that adults and children so readily accept. Faced with the possibility of expulsion, arrest, and ostracism, he must make a choice. Will he choose the easy lie or the hard truth?
291 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2015
72 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
About the author
Phil M. Williams
40 books359 followersPhil M. Williams is the author of twenty-five books primarily in the thriller genre. His thrillers span many subgenres, such as: murder mysteries, political, domestic, dystopian, legal, psychological, and technothrillers. His stories often feature regular Joes and Janes in extraordinary situations that are ripped from today’s headlines.
Williams lives in central Pennsylvania with his wife, Denise. When not writing, he can be found tending their permaculture farm.
If you’d like to read two of his thriller novels for free. Go to http://PhilWBooks.com.
Williams lives in central Pennsylvania with his wife, Denise. When not writing, he can be found tending their permaculture farm.
If you’d like to read two of his thriller novels for free. Go to http://PhilWBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
March 8, 2016
Normally, I'll review a book based on not just the story, character arc, & empathy the characters draw, but the writing itself - grammar, punctuation, etc. For this book, I'm leaving the 2nd part alone and going straight to a five star rating.
Why?
The intensity and emotion jammed between the pages of Against the Grain had my mind spinning, thinking outside the normal comfort zone. Never before have I been transported from that of mere sheep to independent thinker so easily. I take some serious influencing. But, this story swallowed me whole, and I didn't put my kindle down until I finished. Late night!!
There are grammatical issues (sentence structure, etc), and since I have a hard time shutting down my inner editor, it took me a few pages to let loose and allow the story to submerge me. Once I did? Pure enjoyment.
If you have questions about government and their influence - hell, the police, teachers or anyone in 'authority' - you'll enjoy a thorough eye-opening. I had more than one NO SHIT! moments where things clicked into place. Nothing better than a fictional novel that influences the way this one did for me.
An easy 5 stars and must read!!
Why?
The intensity and emotion jammed between the pages of Against the Grain had my mind spinning, thinking outside the normal comfort zone. Never before have I been transported from that of mere sheep to independent thinker so easily. I take some serious influencing. But, this story swallowed me whole, and I didn't put my kindle down until I finished. Late night!!
There are grammatical issues (sentence structure, etc), and since I have a hard time shutting down my inner editor, it took me a few pages to let loose and allow the story to submerge me. Once I did? Pure enjoyment.
If you have questions about government and their influence - hell, the police, teachers or anyone in 'authority' - you'll enjoy a thorough eye-opening. I had more than one NO SHIT! moments where things clicked into place. Nothing better than a fictional novel that influences the way this one did for me.
An easy 5 stars and must read!!
January 21, 2020
In a prominently displayed review on Amazon, one reader gushes that Against The Grain reminds her of Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand’s 1957 best-selling, thousand-page magnum opus to rationalism and capitalism, beginning with the famous question “Who is John Galt?” Phil M. Williams, the author of Against The Grain, should only wish that his reader were correct in her comparison.
Alas, I regret to inform Mr. Williams that his reader’s comparison is not correct.
On the one hand, Mr. Williams should be grateful there is no comparison. As a novel, Atlas Shrugged is tedious. In a radio address to a captive audience near the end of her book, her hero John Galt takes over a hundred pages to present what Ms. Rand calls her Philosophy of Objectivism, a rambling repetitious recitation fascinating to only Ms. Rand’s most diehard disciples. Alan Greenspan, former chairman of the Federal Reserve, is one such fan.
On the other hand, the Ayn Rand Institute claims that her book has sold 7,000,000 copies — and, 62 years later and nearly four decades after her death, Atlas Shrugged is still selling today to a new generation of readers — so Mr. Williams can only pray that any book of his, including Against The Grain, will meet with such success.
But let us be fair to Mr. Williams and judge Against The Grain on its own merits. First, we should note Mr. Williams’ generosity. His book is only four years old and currently sells on Amazon in paperback for $12.99 but he is offering a digital format for free on his website, which is where I got my copy. (A “young adult” edition is also available. I hope that in this version Mr. Williams has eliminated the gross language and explicit sex found in the adult edition.)
Second, many of the faults which mar his other books are also found here, specifically his limited vocabulary and bombastic goals. Mr. Williams is not content to simply tell a story; he believes his book addresses the monumental topics of Free Will, Independent Thought and Truth, calling to mind the phrase that his reach far exceeds his grasp. And like in his other books, his characters are largely limited to showing emotion by “pursing their lips” and “exhaling” and “frowning” to excess.
But aside from the author’s belief that he has anything philosophical to say, he does tell the engaging story of teenager Matt Moyer, homeschooled by his uncle as an iconoclast who regards recorded history as propaganda and who rejects religion and government as nothing more than means to control people. Together they live in a shack with no indoor plumbing, and farm and sell fruits and vegetables to survive. After losing their land, Matt is forced to attend a public school and conform to the dictates of a despotic principal. Young Matt defends his principles and resists the principal in a series of dramatic and exciting encounters all the way to a tidy and happy ending. Author Phil M. Williams considers the high school in his book an allegory for society.
In Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand described an ideal society of skilled, productive, independent individuals, including her hero John Galt. They withdrew from a society drowning in collectivism to create their own capitalist paradise. In his rebellion against the system Matt Moyer is no John Galt, but then again, who is?
Alas, I regret to inform Mr. Williams that his reader’s comparison is not correct.
On the one hand, Mr. Williams should be grateful there is no comparison. As a novel, Atlas Shrugged is tedious. In a radio address to a captive audience near the end of her book, her hero John Galt takes over a hundred pages to present what Ms. Rand calls her Philosophy of Objectivism, a rambling repetitious recitation fascinating to only Ms. Rand’s most diehard disciples. Alan Greenspan, former chairman of the Federal Reserve, is one such fan.
On the other hand, the Ayn Rand Institute claims that her book has sold 7,000,000 copies — and, 62 years later and nearly four decades after her death, Atlas Shrugged is still selling today to a new generation of readers — so Mr. Williams can only pray that any book of his, including Against The Grain, will meet with such success.
But let us be fair to Mr. Williams and judge Against The Grain on its own merits. First, we should note Mr. Williams’ generosity. His book is only four years old and currently sells on Amazon in paperback for $12.99 but he is offering a digital format for free on his website, which is where I got my copy. (A “young adult” edition is also available. I hope that in this version Mr. Williams has eliminated the gross language and explicit sex found in the adult edition.)
Second, many of the faults which mar his other books are also found here, specifically his limited vocabulary and bombastic goals. Mr. Williams is not content to simply tell a story; he believes his book addresses the monumental topics of Free Will, Independent Thought and Truth, calling to mind the phrase that his reach far exceeds his grasp. And like in his other books, his characters are largely limited to showing emotion by “pursing their lips” and “exhaling” and “frowning” to excess.
But aside from the author’s belief that he has anything philosophical to say, he does tell the engaging story of teenager Matt Moyer, homeschooled by his uncle as an iconoclast who regards recorded history as propaganda and who rejects religion and government as nothing more than means to control people. Together they live in a shack with no indoor plumbing, and farm and sell fruits and vegetables to survive. After losing their land, Matt is forced to attend a public school and conform to the dictates of a despotic principal. Young Matt defends his principles and resists the principal in a series of dramatic and exciting encounters all the way to a tidy and happy ending. Author Phil M. Williams considers the high school in his book an allegory for society.
In Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand described an ideal society of skilled, productive, independent individuals, including her hero John Galt. They withdrew from a society drowning in collectivism to create their own capitalist paradise. In his rebellion against the system Matt Moyer is no John Galt, but then again, who is?
April 30, 2018
Matthew “Matt” Moyer (nephew) & Blackie (cat) run a fruit/produce stand for his Great-Uncle Jack Moyer.
Emily (Kingston) is his 1st. customer of the day.
Tyler (brother) lets her know she better get home before mom/dad get mad.
Colton is his tagalong.
Tyler & Colton were not very nice to Matt.
Officer Dave & Officer John were at Matt’s (13) Great-Uncle Moyer home/property.
Dr. Jennifer Hansen (40+, f, HS Principle) & Mr. Chip Hansen began to question Matt.
Matt & Emily are becoming very good friends.
Tyler & Colton continue to be very mean to Matt.
The big day has come his Great-Uncle Moyer wishes him the best.
Emily greets Matt (16) at the door.
Surprise, surprise its Dr. Jennifer Hansen (KHA president) & Mr. Chip Hansen sitting at the dinner table.
They laid down the law about their daughter.
More bad news the city wants the farm/property cleaned up or else.
Chief Dave Campbell was there bright/early the next morning.
What was John Jacobs (developer) speaking to Great-Uncle Jack Moyer about?
A letter had arrived from the Kingstown Homeowner’s Association (KHA).
What will Great-Uncle Jack Moyer do now?
Juvenile Detention Centers Association of Pennsylvania (JDCAP). Grace greets Matt & Regina (A/A, social worker).
Grace introduces the coed household to Matt. Dwight (Grace’s fiancé) George, Ryan, Abigail “Abby” Arnold (Jefferson HS), & Madison (Goth).
Grace introduces Matt to Pastor Roberts.
What did Tariq Ahmed (son, Madison’s BMF), & Matt see John Jacobs & Dr. Hansen doing?
What were John & Matt discussing?
Officer Blackman, & Officer Mullen came to Matt’s class & arrested him.
What did Chief Campbell do?
What will become of Mr. Dalton, Mr. Richardson, Dr. Hansen & Emily?
The only thing I disliked was the split screen I have to adjust every page to read it. But I understand the cost factor.
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & too small font, but great writing style. Wow, a very well written mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
Emily (Kingston) is his 1st. customer of the day.
Tyler (brother) lets her know she better get home before mom/dad get mad.
Colton is his tagalong.
Tyler & Colton were not very nice to Matt.
Officer Dave & Officer John were at Matt’s (13) Great-Uncle Moyer home/property.
Dr. Jennifer Hansen (40+, f, HS Principle) & Mr. Chip Hansen began to question Matt.
Matt & Emily are becoming very good friends.
Tyler & Colton continue to be very mean to Matt.
The big day has come his Great-Uncle Moyer wishes him the best.
Emily greets Matt (16) at the door.
Surprise, surprise its Dr. Jennifer Hansen (KHA president) & Mr. Chip Hansen sitting at the dinner table.
They laid down the law about their daughter.
More bad news the city wants the farm/property cleaned up or else.
Chief Dave Campbell was there bright/early the next morning.
What was John Jacobs (developer) speaking to Great-Uncle Jack Moyer about?
A letter had arrived from the Kingstown Homeowner’s Association (KHA).
What will Great-Uncle Jack Moyer do now?
Juvenile Detention Centers Association of Pennsylvania (JDCAP). Grace greets Matt & Regina (A/A, social worker).
Grace introduces the coed household to Matt. Dwight (Grace’s fiancé) George, Ryan, Abigail “Abby” Arnold (Jefferson HS), & Madison (Goth).
Grace introduces Matt to Pastor Roberts.
What did Tariq Ahmed (son, Madison’s BMF), & Matt see John Jacobs & Dr. Hansen doing?
What were John & Matt discussing?
Officer Blackman, & Officer Mullen came to Matt’s class & arrested him.
What did Chief Campbell do?
What will become of Mr. Dalton, Mr. Richardson, Dr. Hansen & Emily?
The only thing I disliked was the split screen I have to adjust every page to read it. But I understand the cost factor.
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & too small font, but great writing style. Wow, a very well written mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
August 24, 2019
I love this book! At first the dialogue was stilted. But Phil M. Williams took me on a memorable journey to yet another world that I’m completely unfamiliar with. As has been the norm so far for this author, it’s a story that I hated to see end. Phil M. has become one of my favorite authors.
March 15, 2022
I received a free electronic copy of this novel from the author. Thank you so much for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Against the Grain of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am pleased to recommend Phil M. Williams to friends and family. He writes an intriguing tale with personable characters and a story that is compelling.
Matt Moyer is orphaned at a very young age and is raised and home-schooled by his only remaining relative, a great uncle, who is a single geriatric, a treehugger, and an environmentalist considered eccentric by his peers in that he lives a very simple life. Their only income is from eggs, honey from their many beehives, and raising organic vegetables which they sell to passersby on an honor system in a stand on the road that runs by their rustic two-room cabin. At sixteen years old, Matt's only real friend is Emily, the daughter of city high-rollers, but it is a secret friendship, hidden from her parents.
Uncle bought his many acres of land a lifetime ago, but the town has grown out to border on that property, and at the current market value it's worth a half-million dollars, too big a prize for the local movers and shakers to resist. In actuality, money is for Uncle and Matt extremely tight. There are no noticeable savings, all they have is the land. And they find themselves in a perilous place where the wheels of justice are against them. Many laws have come into effect since their land was recently included in the city limits, and they are faced with the choice of selling out or losing the land to forclosure over fines against their possession of animals, the bees, their roadside vegetable stand, and their lack of a modern bathroom. Uncle tries to fight it in the courts but loses soundly, and they have three days to comply or be fined thousands daily. There is no way to sell anything in just three days. Matt is faced with killing his chickens, burning his beehives, and mowing his wild meadows. The roadside stand has already been trashed by town boys. Uncle can't help. How can he handle all of this? He has nothing left, but his love for his great-uncle and his friendship with Emily. And his hold on both of those relationships is tenuous, at best.
Reviewed on March 15, 2022, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo. Not available for review at GooglePlay.
Matt Moyer is orphaned at a very young age and is raised and home-schooled by his only remaining relative, a great uncle, who is a single geriatric, a treehugger, and an environmentalist considered eccentric by his peers in that he lives a very simple life. Their only income is from eggs, honey from their many beehives, and raising organic vegetables which they sell to passersby on an honor system in a stand on the road that runs by their rustic two-room cabin. At sixteen years old, Matt's only real friend is Emily, the daughter of city high-rollers, but it is a secret friendship, hidden from her parents.
Uncle bought his many acres of land a lifetime ago, but the town has grown out to border on that property, and at the current market value it's worth a half-million dollars, too big a prize for the local movers and shakers to resist. In actuality, money is for Uncle and Matt extremely tight. There are no noticeable savings, all they have is the land. And they find themselves in a perilous place where the wheels of justice are against them. Many laws have come into effect since their land was recently included in the city limits, and they are faced with the choice of selling out or losing the land to forclosure over fines against their possession of animals, the bees, their roadside vegetable stand, and their lack of a modern bathroom. Uncle tries to fight it in the courts but loses soundly, and they have three days to comply or be fined thousands daily. There is no way to sell anything in just three days. Matt is faced with killing his chickens, burning his beehives, and mowing his wild meadows. The roadside stand has already been trashed by town boys. Uncle can't help. How can he handle all of this? He has nothing left, but his love for his great-uncle and his friendship with Emily. And his hold on both of those relationships is tenuous, at best.
Reviewed on March 15, 2022, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo. Not available for review at GooglePlay.
August 12, 2022
A thoroughly enjoyable, thought provoking but frustrating novel in which a non conformist teenager has not only to cope with growing up when his whole world has been undermined but tries to do the 'right' thing by exposing corruption. He is also trying to deal with the demons of his mother's death and discover more about his genetic family. A veritable mind blowing combination of demands!
The extent to which politically astute or connected locals used the system to their advantage while covering up crime scared me more than a horror movie. Even when caught they mostly avoided serious consequences.
If you read this and your blood isn't boiling and there's a small tear in your eye by the end of it then I don't know what will get you agitated. I just thank God that things may be better in this country - or are they??
The extent to which politically astute or connected locals used the system to their advantage while covering up crime scared me more than a horror movie. Even when caught they mostly avoided serious consequences.
If you read this and your blood isn't boiling and there's a small tear in your eye by the end of it then I don't know what will get you agitated. I just thank God that things may be better in this country - or are they??
March 16, 2025
I loved this story! This is the 3rd book in a row that I have read by Mr. Williams. I enjoyed all 3 of them, but Against the grain was my favorite. I don't think any reader would be disappointed in this book. I hope to find more titles by Mr. Williams.
May 14, 2023
An amazing story. The author takes us on a journey that makes us think. The characters are strong and make you feel a part of their lives. Loved it.
September 17, 2017
The author really takes the reader on an engaging, thought-provoking, entertaining, and, and suspenseful rollercoaster ride of events! There was sad moments that mad you cry bone deep sobs,and happy moments that make you pump your fist fight the power! Matt was a kid who was poor, but not lacking for anything. He wasn't an antisocial kid,he just didn't have kids on his level of socialism. All of Matt's struggles played to his strength's. I do believe that his uncle Jack Moyer kept one secret from Matt and that is what really happened to his mother and the identity of his father. I think Jack knew, and he gave the guilty party his just comeuppance for what he did. In the end everybody that had a hand in doing something immoral or illegal to the students or in that community got what they deserved, or should've got even more punishment in justification. In closing Matt got a loving family and friends a great career he enjoys and cherishes, and that's what's important!
January 15, 2019
This was a great book! I enjoyed the story. It was sad how much the main character had to endure with bullying and so much pain in this life. It was wonderful to see how he triumphed despite his many trials that were placed on him. It was an emotional story and you could feel his pain throughout the story.
November 20, 2017
Not kindle unlimited but actually got it on a freebie day. Shades of other real world things going on so interesting.
A tyrannical high school principal. A young anarchist with nothing left to lose. One way or another, this place is goin’ down.
Matt Moyer is an orphaned teen growing up on a primitive farm in the Pennsylvania coal region. He’s homeschooled by his eccentric and philosophical great-uncle, who’s a stickler for logic, reason, and intellectual honesty. Despite his uncle’s reverence for veracity, inconsistencies arise regarding the old man’s shady past and the teen’s parents. Through a harrowing sequence of events, Matt is forced to attend a public school. The feral teen finds it difficult to cope with the hypocrisy, propaganda, and misinformation that adults and children so readily accept. Faced with the possibility of expulsion, arrest, and ostracism, he must make a choice. Will he choose the easy lie or the hard truth?
Adult language and content.
A tyrannical high school principal. A young anarchist with nothing left to lose. One way or another, this place is goin’ down.
Matt Moyer is an orphaned teen growing up on a primitive farm in the Pennsylvania coal region. He’s homeschooled by his eccentric and philosophical great-uncle, who’s a stickler for logic, reason, and intellectual honesty. Despite his uncle’s reverence for veracity, inconsistencies arise regarding the old man’s shady past and the teen’s parents. Through a harrowing sequence of events, Matt is forced to attend a public school. The feral teen finds it difficult to cope with the hypocrisy, propaganda, and misinformation that adults and children so readily accept. Faced with the possibility of expulsion, arrest, and ostracism, he must make a choice. Will he choose the easy lie or the hard truth?
Adult language and content.
January 16, 2019
I received an audible from the author and I am voluntarily reviewing it. This is a great book, I am so disappointed that it is over. I want to be the main character when I grow up.
June 8, 2019
Brilliant. I really like the way you write, but also the story.
January 7, 2019
This book was an excellent read! You were pulling for 5e main character ,Matt, right from the start. I couldn’t put the book down once I got about midway through! I just needed to know how successful Matt would ultimately be and was happy to see that the love of his life came back at the very end!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2017
It's very much like the Horatio Alger myth. We have a working class poor farmer boy who is home schooled by his uncle who is raising him from about 5 years old. The uncle is now in ill health and the boy - Matt has taken on more and more of the work at the farm. He has been in love with Emily since they were about 12. Bad things happen to both Matt and his uncle. The farm gets taken eye in a probable illegal move by a nearby HOA. I could go on but it is best if you read it for yourself. It will like grab you like it did me.
August 22, 2019
Another story that makes you think from Phil M Williams. For me, this is why I particularly enjoy this authors writing, I want to be made to think at the same time as being entertained. This book is about a great many things from greed to bullying to the idea that one person can make a change in the world. I won’t spoil the story by telling you if they do or not!. Having read and enjoyed so many of Phil M Williams books is fair to say that I’m a fan. This story is one of his very best. It’s hard, and heart wrenching at times, to see the things that happen to the main character, Matt Moyer. There are forces at work that have greatly influenced his life and are set to do so again but will he stand up to them or will he fall? Can he stand up to ‘the system’ and show the propanada for what it really is? This book is a complex look at society woven into an enjoyable tale that is written with skill and confidence that showcases the authors view of how our world works. A great read that I thoroughly recommend.
February 9, 2017
Against the Grain by Phil M. Williams
Starts out with Matt and his uncle is raising him and homeschooling him. They run a farm and sell crops at the end of the road using honor system.
Emily lives nearby and has a brother who bothers her at times. Now that they are teens she realizes her mother might be having an affair and her father just cares about himself.
Neither parent cares that her brother and friends are harassing her and abusing her mentally.
Inspection is due at the farm and he has to do many things to kill so they will pass. His uncle is very ill.
The county is against him as he doesn't know all the details of the past....so much goes wrong for him but he has to find out more about his mother and make sure others know of how his uncle died.
He also hopes to right all the wrongs done to him and others while in foster care system.
Brutal straight forward descriptions of life events, details as he has flashbacks of what really happened and who was involved.
Love all the parts of gardening, so knowledgeable using his hands.
I received this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Starts out with Matt and his uncle is raising him and homeschooling him. They run a farm and sell crops at the end of the road using honor system.
Emily lives nearby and has a brother who bothers her at times. Now that they are teens she realizes her mother might be having an affair and her father just cares about himself.
Neither parent cares that her brother and friends are harassing her and abusing her mentally.
Inspection is due at the farm and he has to do many things to kill so they will pass. His uncle is very ill.
The county is against him as he doesn't know all the details of the past....so much goes wrong for him but he has to find out more about his mother and make sure others know of how his uncle died.
He also hopes to right all the wrongs done to him and others while in foster care system.
Brutal straight forward descriptions of life events, details as he has flashbacks of what really happened and who was involved.
Love all the parts of gardening, so knowledgeable using his hands.
I received this book from the author and this is my honest review.
March 6, 2017
I can relate. As I was reading this book, I saw myself a lot. I was THAT kid growing up. For a while, I was the fat kid, mostly I never fit in, and I pulled straight A's when I wasn't being kicked out for arguing against the propaganda we were being fed.
I love that this story challenges the norm in the US. I highly recommend it!
I love that this story challenges the norm in the US. I highly recommend it!
August 19, 2018
Against the Grain- The way that Matt & his Uncle were treated is truly against the grain. Part of the book was hard for me to read, as I was worried about the trouble Matt was going to get into. The struggles are so true in this life and even though Matt & his friends come out of it for the better, to me it is a sad story. It is intense and full of emotion even when not reading it was still with me. It would be a great movie. I am happy that I read it.
August 19, 2018
Wonderful story of growing up and learning that life is never simple. This is a story of a young man who is dealt a tough hand, but manages to hold on to his principles while discovering his true family. I couldn’t put the book down!
April 14, 2016
Why, oh why are homeschoolers in literature and video always eccentric? I'm sure a percentage are, genuinely a little odd, but I feel also that some of this view is held because mainstream society is maintained by teaching children into conform and preserving the status quo. (Wo. That was a mouthful!) Public schools really don't know what to make of homeschoolers, either. Oftentimes, they cannot conceive that individual parents, instead of the public education system, can teach their children what the children will need to know to function as adults.
This is the world which Phil M. Williams presents us in Against the Grain. The opening scenes show Matt doing some chores around his uncle's farm (gathering honey, picking peaches), then carting the produce to a main road to sell. We also meet a girl from the town and several bullies who probably would have been Matt's classmates if he went to public school. We don't learn (until after the 'normal' discussion between Matt and the girl) that she is apparently overweight. The bullies make reference to it, in a derogatory manner. Then they turn their disdain to Matt, calling him 'Amish', intimating that he is homosexual, and use racial epithets. This is what people do to that which they do not understand. They label it 'other than us' and seek to feel superior to whatever 'it' is.
Anyway, off my soapbox and back to the book. And that is only the beginning of Matt's troubles. Eventually, he is forced to go to public school. Entering the system as someone who has lived outside of it for most of his life, Matt sees straight away the hypocrisy of the system. The system values conformity over individualism, and does not hesitate to send free thinkers through stringent 're-education', designed to make them follow the flow with the rest of the students.
You may be wondering about some of my 'anti-establishment' rhetoric. Yes, we have homeschooled our three children. The youngest is now 12. The two older children went for at least a time to public school. The last straw for us was when we went to the district over what seemed unequal treatment of our children. Shortly after, the primary (Pre-K through 2nd grade) principal told us we had a meeting with her and said, "How dare you go over my head." Oh. My. Goodness. We withdrew both children a week before school let out for the year and have never looked back.
And the principal we faced was a pussycat compared to the one at Matt's school. So, we know all to well the price we pay for bucking the system. My mother's heart almost ached for Matt as he encountered problem after problem trying to adjust to his 'new normal'.
I enjoyed Mr. Williams use of description. He gave enough information to engage my senses, so I experienced the book not just by sight of the words, but of the scene - how it looked, what sounds there were, etc. It isn't often I will read something by an author previously unknown to me then add the rest of his or her works to my TBR. In this case, I will one day read every work of fiction written by Phil M. Williams.
This is the world which Phil M. Williams presents us in Against the Grain. The opening scenes show Matt doing some chores around his uncle's farm (gathering honey, picking peaches), then carting the produce to a main road to sell. We also meet a girl from the town and several bullies who probably would have been Matt's classmates if he went to public school. We don't learn (until after the 'normal' discussion between Matt and the girl) that she is apparently overweight. The bullies make reference to it, in a derogatory manner. Then they turn their disdain to Matt, calling him 'Amish', intimating that he is homosexual, and use racial epithets. This is what people do to that which they do not understand. They label it 'other than us' and seek to feel superior to whatever 'it' is.
Anyway, off my soapbox and back to the book. And that is only the beginning of Matt's troubles. Eventually, he is forced to go to public school. Entering the system as someone who has lived outside of it for most of his life, Matt sees straight away the hypocrisy of the system. The system values conformity over individualism, and does not hesitate to send free thinkers through stringent 're-education', designed to make them follow the flow with the rest of the students.
You may be wondering about some of my 'anti-establishment' rhetoric. Yes, we have homeschooled our three children. The youngest is now 12. The two older children went for at least a time to public school. The last straw for us was when we went to the district over what seemed unequal treatment of our children. Shortly after, the primary (Pre-K through 2nd grade) principal told us we had a meeting with her and said, "How dare you go over my head." Oh. My. Goodness. We withdrew both children a week before school let out for the year and have never looked back.
And the principal we faced was a pussycat compared to the one at Matt's school. So, we know all to well the price we pay for bucking the system. My mother's heart almost ached for Matt as he encountered problem after problem trying to adjust to his 'new normal'.
I enjoyed Mr. Williams use of description. He gave enough information to engage my senses, so I experienced the book not just by sight of the words, but of the scene - how it looked, what sounds there were, etc. It isn't often I will read something by an author previously unknown to me then add the rest of his or her works to my TBR. In this case, I will one day read every work of fiction written by Phil M. Williams.
April 30, 2018
The book is definitely thought provoking and takes you on an eye opening journey thru the eyes of a teenage boy with great angst. Great book.
January 6, 2018
Totally different look at life - the good, the bad, the ugly, the kind. I really loved reading Against The Grain, it's a thought provoking and emotionally charged book, and somehow left me feeling there's hope for those who are "different". It's not really different, its original.
Great book. I highly recommend it.
I try to review every fiction book I read, simply because I feel there's a part of the author's soul inside.
Great book. I highly recommend it.
I try to review every fiction book I read, simply because I feel there's a part of the author's soul inside.
December 7, 2019
An orphaned 5-year old boy, Matt Moyer, goes to live with his eccentric uncle on a farm. His uncle homeschools him and teaches him many things including farming. As the years go by, Matt learns everything about farming and becomes quite adept at taking care of all the chores and his uncle whose health is failing. Things seem to be going along until disaster strikes, the farm is taken away, his uncle dies and Matt is sent to a foster home. He is now 16 and sent to school for the first time continually questioning everything and trying to adjust. Matt has had a very rough life. So many things happen to him, some good, more bad. I was so intrigued by his character and deeply felt his pain and also some joy. I did love the way the book ended. I am so happy I read this book and easily give it 5+ stars.
August 13, 2018
I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down
December 22, 2018
Extremely intense. At first I thought I might have downloaded a young adult book. I soon realized, this book was more than that. If you are a teacher or in law enforcement who think neither profession could possibly have bad apples in the ranks, this book is not for you. If you can keep an open mind, read on.
January 6, 2018
Read in one sitting , you've no idea how rarely I do that. Interesting and unusual , love , life and veg a pretty good mix
November 16, 2022
Matt is an orphan who is home-schooled by his great uncle a free-thinking small time market gardener. They live on a narrow stretch of land adjacent a township housing development that looks askance at his apiary, unmowed flowery meadow, orchard, and garden plots. I can remember when I could find at least 3 strawberry patches within the boundaries of the town of Oakville. Hays Farm that once sold prize bulls to Fidel Castro is gone as is Briarhall Stables their names assigned to streets where cattle and horses once grazed. I used to deliver mail to a pig farmer whose barns were too close to an upscale housing subdivision.
Matt has thoughts such as:
Killing someone on the street is murder but killing them in war is protecting the state. Democracy is voting for a choice between who is going to tax you against your will. Parents coerce their children to live by their standards. Matt's girlfriend is body shamed by her mother because Emily's rubenesque figure doesn't meet with her ideal shape. Her brother who is the apple of his mother's eye gets away with mocking her and bullying Matt. Meanwhile mum is having an extra-marital affair and pop has drug parties.
We need right to farm legislation to protect the people who grow our food. The premier of Ontario would destroy millions of acres of farmland to build yet another expressway and considers green space wasted development opportunity.
Matt has presence and bearing lacking in many adults and the ability to stand up and make his opinions known in the face of hostile fellow students and adults. The foster home he is placed in when his uncle dies has a kitchen pantry filled with junk food and the school cafeteria considers salads a waste.
Matt and his friends begin playing amateur detectives investigating corrupt politicians and school officials. Matt returns to his farmboy roots setting up a garden in his favourite teacher’s yard, even building a hive to capture a swarm of bees. For all we know they were his bees in the first place.
Not exactly sure where the action took place but crystal apple cucumbers which are new to me require a warm climate. I like Matt.
Matt has thoughts such as:
Killing someone on the street is murder but killing them in war is protecting the state. Democracy is voting for a choice between who is going to tax you against your will. Parents coerce their children to live by their standards. Matt's girlfriend is body shamed by her mother because Emily's rubenesque figure doesn't meet with her ideal shape. Her brother who is the apple of his mother's eye gets away with mocking her and bullying Matt. Meanwhile mum is having an extra-marital affair and pop has drug parties.
We need right to farm legislation to protect the people who grow our food. The premier of Ontario would destroy millions of acres of farmland to build yet another expressway and considers green space wasted development opportunity.
Matt has presence and bearing lacking in many adults and the ability to stand up and make his opinions known in the face of hostile fellow students and adults. The foster home he is placed in when his uncle dies has a kitchen pantry filled with junk food and the school cafeteria considers salads a waste.
Matt and his friends begin playing amateur detectives investigating corrupt politicians and school officials. Matt returns to his farmboy roots setting up a garden in his favourite teacher’s yard, even building a hive to capture a swarm of bees. For all we know they were his bees in the first place.
Not exactly sure where the action took place but crystal apple cucumbers which are new to me require a warm climate. I like Matt.
April 15, 2018
Against the Grain.
I had to let this book sink into my mind and see just how I felt about it. The coming of age of Matt, teenager to young adulthood. First love and finding his way in the politically incorrect world. He's a philosopher, a dreamer, a student and a farmer. He loves the farm and had learned how to survive in a world of "little pink houses" and socially acceptable people. After the death of his uncle, he entered the world of "foster care." He discovered that only the pc people had any real power and with a few friends decided to have that power taken from them. Unfortunately he and his friends didn't get them all, but got most of the ring leaders. A book well worth reading and one that should produce a lot of thought..I enjoyed it...
I
I had to let this book sink into my mind and see just how I felt about it. The coming of age of Matt, teenager to young adulthood. First love and finding his way in the politically incorrect world. He's a philosopher, a dreamer, a student and a farmer. He loves the farm and had learned how to survive in a world of "little pink houses" and socially acceptable people. After the death of his uncle, he entered the world of "foster care." He discovered that only the pc people had any real power and with a few friends decided to have that power taken from them. Unfortunately he and his friends didn't get them all, but got most of the ring leaders. A book well worth reading and one that should produce a lot of thought..I enjoyed it...
I
March 29, 2016
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
I wasn’t sure what Against the Grain would be about, but once I started reading it, I couldn’t stpo. Matt Moyer is an orphaned teen growing up on a primitive farm in Pennsylvania. He’s homeschooled by his great-uncle who is a tad eccentric, and has a pendant for people telling the truth and being honest. But despite that, Matt discoves some inconsistencies regarding his uncle’s shady past and his parents.
When Matt is forced to attend a public school, he finds it difficult to cope with hypocrisy, propaganda and the misinformation teens and adults readily accept. He has to make a choice between the easy road filled with lies, or the tough road filled with truths.
I didn’t want to give away too much of the plot, but Matt is pretty much an underdog fighting against the system. The story also focused a lot on how no one culd be trusted, the system can’t be trusted, and how we all have to think critically to find out the truths on our own. I certainly couldn’t just sit still while reading this – I felt a lot of emotions, mostly anger at the system, at authority, and how it influenced our every day lives.
A page-turner, with an intriguing world view and a likeable protagonist who, as the title says, isn’t afraid to go against the grain.
I wasn’t sure what Against the Grain would be about, but once I started reading it, I couldn’t stpo. Matt Moyer is an orphaned teen growing up on a primitive farm in Pennsylvania. He’s homeschooled by his great-uncle who is a tad eccentric, and has a pendant for people telling the truth and being honest. But despite that, Matt discoves some inconsistencies regarding his uncle’s shady past and his parents.
When Matt is forced to attend a public school, he finds it difficult to cope with hypocrisy, propaganda and the misinformation teens and adults readily accept. He has to make a choice between the easy road filled with lies, or the tough road filled with truths.
I didn’t want to give away too much of the plot, but Matt is pretty much an underdog fighting against the system. The story also focused a lot on how no one culd be trusted, the system can’t be trusted, and how we all have to think critically to find out the truths on our own. I certainly couldn’t just sit still while reading this – I felt a lot of emotions, mostly anger at the system, at authority, and how it influenced our every day lives.
A page-turner, with an intriguing world view and a likeable protagonist who, as the title says, isn’t afraid to go against the grain.
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