Of the Farm

by John Updike
Of the Farm cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £12.99
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Technical
  • ID: 11059
  • Added: 2026-02-18
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780141189024
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2007-08-30
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Of the Farm follows Joey Robinson, a 35-year-old advertising executive, as he visits the farm where he grew up and where his mother now lives alone. Accompanied by his wife and stepson, Joey spends three days reflecting on his life's path and the choices that have led him to where he is today. The novel delves into themes of family, identity, and the passage of time, as Joey grapples with his memories and the reality of his present life. /n/n The story is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the search for meaning in one's life. As Joey navigates his past and present, he begins to understand the true value of his roots and the importance of the connections that shape our lives.

Reviews
Vocal Media · 2026-02-18
great 4.00

The book is not plot-heavy but is a joy to read. It is considered one of Updike's better novels and is relatively short.

The reviewer from Vocal Media found 'Of the Farm' to be a joy to read, despite it not being plot-heavy. They think it is one of Updike's better novels and appreciate its brevity. The writing style and the depth of the characters make it a compelling read, even if it lacks a lot of action.

Quick quotes

    Though it isn't plot heavy, this book has been a joy to read.

    I think that for now, it is one of his better novels that is also pretty short.

    The writing is impeccable at times, making it a compelling read.

Cannonball Read · 2022-05-05
good 3.50

The book is slight but the writing is impeccable. It reads more like a long short story than a novel.

The reviewer from Cannonball Read noted that 'Of the Farm' is a slight book, but the writing is impeccable. They felt that it reads more like a long short story than a novel. Despite its brevity, the depth and quality of the writing make it a worthwhile read. The reviewer appreciated the subtlety and the sureness of touch in Updike's writing.

Quick quotes

    This book is slight, but the writing is impeccable at times.

    It reads like a longish short story, and not a novel.

    The subtlety of vision and the sureness of touch are notable.

Scott William Foley · Scott William Foley · 2009-04-01
good 3.50

The characters are realistic and flawed, but the book lacks physical action. The mother and wife are portrayed as respectable yet equally flawed.

Scott William Foley found the characters in 'Of the Farm' to be very realistic and flawed, which he appreciated. He noted that the mother and wife were portrayed as respectable yet equally flawed as the main character. However, he felt that the book lacked any real physical action, which might make it less engaging for some readers. Despite this, he seemed to enjoy the depth and complexity of the characters.

Quick quotes

    I found the mother and wife realistic, respectable, and equally as flawed as the main character.

    Though lacking any real physical action, the book still manages to keep the reader engaged.

    The characters are portrayed with a depth and complexity that makes them feel very real.

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