Wirral Libraries Bookbuzz discussion

If you enjoy watching the Owen’s family on Our Yorkshire Farm, I recommend you read this. It is Amanda Owen’s autobiography from her early years, through her journey to becoming a shepherdess, to her life and family at Ravenseat.

I have loved watching Amanda and her beautiful family over the years, and it was interesting to be able to see how it all began for this remarkable and inspiring woman. Not having a background in farming, her journey is not without setbacks, and from the beginning we see her determination and resilience in pursuit of her dream life.

The book is written in a calm, relaxing, friendly tone, and there is plenty of humour. Amanda’s laid back, no nonsense style shines through every page. Don’t expect lots of drama, this is a gentle meander through her life, and even the moments of tension that litter anyone’s life, are dealt with in her practical, and sometimes quirky style. No bed? No problem…use the money you saved to buy a stuffed goat (because who doesn’t need one of those?) and sleep on cushions instead.

There are many more lovely anecdotes as well as honest descriptions of her struggles and the harder aspects of hill farming. Anyone who follows her on Instagram, as I do, will have seen her daily trek through the wild snow - covered hills in search of 16 sheep from her 700 flock, that were lost in the bad weather.

Always optimistic, hardworking, practical, and cheery, Amanda is the sort of person you would like to be friends with; and reading the book that is how she makes you feel, as if you are an old friend who has dropped in for a chat. A lovely, easy, and light read to lift your spirits on a dull day.