
Book: “Uprooted” by Grace Olmstead
Genre: Non-Fiction/Memoir
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Blogger’s Note: Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Journalist Grace Olmstead is a small town woman who uprooted and moved to Washington D.C. to follow her dreams of becoming a writer. In this non-fiction memoir styled book, she explores the complex concept of rural sociology and the impact of “Uprooting” on the people who are left behind.
This work was a beautifully written exploration of rural life and what it means to be from a small town. Olmstead mixes the memoir style with stories of others who have been impacted by people leaving and returning to these rural places. Reflective and comprehensive, the book provides a deep dive into a rural landscape, farming and what it takes to survive in the country.
As a city girl myself, I started this book with absolutely zero knowledge on the subject. I am so glad that this work filled some of those knowledge gaps and shared informational passages on agriculture and the impact of government on these areas. From dairy farming to the working the corn fields, this book transplants readers into the sepia toned world of small town living by sharing real world experiences of the people who thrive and struggle there.
This book is intelligent, contemplative and inspiring. It shows the importance of human connection and will move readers to reconnect with people around them. It begs readers to consider the following questions: Where are you from and where are you going?
Recommendation: Pick up this book for an in depth look at rural sociology!