Mapping the Farm: The Chronicle of a Family

The subject matter in this book is handled well, engaging and is well written. I was put off by a lack of an index as I was using the book for research but was glad for the endnotes and reference material mentioned. Great book on midwest farm culture. One interesting point to note as a graphic designer I was impressed creative dust jacket on this book which featured a half fold on the front cover and folded out to reveal a map. The quality of design should be noted, usually history books of this type have appalling design.

Hildebrand's book is some of the best literary nonfiction I've read. His characters are well-developed. Because of that, the reader is drawn into the farm and, ultimately, its plight. This book does an excellent job of depicting rural life. It's very true to life (which is good, since it's nonfiction). EXCELLENT BOOK, highly recommended.