This is a candid account, written with an endearing sense of self-deprecating humor, of taking a cause into action, which is something few people have the courage to do. Siggy, “a German city girl,” and her then-husband were environmental activists with strong leanings towards the Green party in Germany. What propelled their idealism into action was the nuclear disaster around Chernobyl. The choice to move to Ireland was his: “Instead he chose Ireland, because it was mainly unspoiled, green and far enough from frightening politics.”

Written in a direct conversational tone, I Once Had a Farm in Ireland, this is an enlightening account of their learning experience, with all its challenges and surprises. Searching to buy a house, they met a caretaker who refused to show them the interior, why? Because it had a ghost. Which, strangely enough, inspired an idea to use its presence as a tourist attraction: ‘Have a glass of champagne at midnight with our resident ghost!’

As an armchair farmer I enjoyed reading about agricultural challenges. “The Irish weather changes rapidly, not just in spring, which officially starts on 1 February. Sometimes you have four seasons in one day ... well, at least three, maybe not the snow.” But let me make sure you understand: this book is about a lot more than learning about organic farms. Follow Siggy as she tried to cope with a major transition in life, which is accompanied by longing and by constant comparisons to the culture back home. "What I missed most were German Christmas markets. Often situated in the old marketplace of each town, within historic city walls or other pedestrianized areas, advent markets invite you to stroll around, socialize, shop, and eat."

Five Stars. ( )