Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a memoir by Barbara Kingsolver about the year she and her family spent living on a small farm in rural Virginia. The book tells the story of their journey from city dwellers to self-sufficient farmers, as they learn to grow their own food and live off the land. Along the way, Kingsolver offers readers insights into how agriculture works (or doesn’t work) in America today, while also celebrating the beauty and importance of homegrown food.
For who is this book for ?
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a book for people who are interested in learning about agriculture and sustainable living. Kingsolver tells the story of her family’s journey from city dwellers to self-sufficient farmers, and along the way offers readers insights into how agriculture works (or doesn’t work) today. The book also celebrates the beauty and importance of homegrown food.
Pros :
- Kingsolver is a great storyteller, and the book is filled with interesting anecdotes about life on the farm.
- The author has an obvious passion for agriculture and rural life, which makes for fascinating reading.
- Animal, Vegetable, Miracle provides a detailed look at the challenges and rewards of sustainable farming
Cons :
- The book can be quite dense at times and may require concentration to follow
- It can be a little slow in parts, as Kingsolver takes the time to explore all aspects of life on the farm
- Some readers may not appreciate the author’s strong political views
Learn more about the author
Barbara Kingsolver is an American novelist, essayist and poet. She has written several critically acclaimed novels, including The Poisonwood Bible and Animal Dreams. Her non-fiction work includes the bestselling memoirs Prodigal Summer and High Tide in Tucson.
Reader Reviews
“Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is an eloquent and comprehensive argument for sustainable agriculture in America. It’s also one of the most compelling pieces of writing I’ve read in years.”
“Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a passionate and personal account of one family’s journey towards self-sufficiency. Kingsolver takes us on an engaging tour of the year they spent living on a small farm in rural Virginia, where they learned to grow their own food and live off the land. This book is packed with valuable information about agriculture and sustainability, but it’s also full of delightful humor and warmth.”
“One of the great books about contemporary agriculture.”
“Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is a wonderful book. It made me laugh out loud and it also brought tears to my eyes. Barbara Kingsolver has written a lyrical gem about the importance of living close to the land.”