The Shepherd’s Life: A People’s History of the Lake District

by James Rebanks
The Shepherd’s Life: A People’s History of the Lake District cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 5194
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
papergreat.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
engaging 4.50

The Shepherd's Life offers a unique and engaging perspective on rural life in the Lake District, blending personal anecdotes with historical insights. It's a book that will appeal to those interested in nature, history, and the resilience of rural communities.

The Shepherd's Life is a heartfelt and informative account of life in the Lake District, seen through the eyes of a shepherd. The author's personal experiences and deep knowledge of the land make the book both intimate and educational. They provide a vivid portrayal of the challenges and rewards of shepherding, as well as the rich history of the region. The book is not just about sheep and farming; it's about the people who have shaped the landscape and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. It's a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt a connection to the natural world or has an appreciation for the simple, yet profound, ways of rural life. The author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy to get lost in the stories and the beauty of the Lake District.

Quick quotes

    The shepherd's life is one of hard work and dedication, but it is also one of deep connection to the land and the animals

    The Lake District is not just a place of natural beauty; it is a place of history and tradition

    The shepherd's life is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

beta.thestorygraph.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
engaging 4.50

The Shepherd's Life offers a unique and engaging perspective on the Lake District, blending history, culture, and personal anecdotes. It's a book that will appeal to those interested in rural life, history, and the natural world.

The Shepherd's Life is a beautifully written account that brings the Lake District to life. The author's deep connection to the land and its people is evident throughout, making it a compelling read. They provide a fresh perspective on the region's history and culture, which is both informative and entertaining. The personal anecdotes add a layer of authenticity and warmth to the narrative, making it feel like a conversation with a knowledgeable local. The book is not just about sheep farming; it's a love letter to the Lake District and its people. The only downside is that some readers might find the pacing a bit slow, but for those who appreciate a detailed and immersive experience, it's a gem.

Quick quotes

    The author's deep connection to the land and its people is evident throughout, making it a compelling read.

    The book is not just about sheep farming; it's a love letter to the Lake District and its people.

    The Shepherd's Life offers a unique and engaging perspective on the Lake District, blending history, culture, and personal anecdotes.

goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
disappointing 3.00

The reviewer found the book smug and parochial, with a narrator that didn't help. They also disliked the lack of explanation for the financial unsustainability of the farming practices described.

The reviewer had high hopes for this book but ultimately didn't enjoy it. They found the tone smug and parochial, bordering on eugenicist, and the author's portrayal of himself unlikable. The audiobook narrator was also a detractor. Additionally, the reviewer was disappointed that the book buried the lead about the financial unsustainability of the farming practices described, with little explanation beyond 'because.' They felt the book focused more on what was happening rather than why.

Quick quotes

    I didn't like this book. I wanted to, but it just never got there for me. It's oddly smug and so parochial in tone that it borders on eugenecist in a weird way.

    I think the narrator in the audiobook didn't help.

    I also didn't like that it buries the lead that the farming he describes is completely financially unsustainable.

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