This is a book to savour. It's the story of a man raised to expect to live his life as a shepherd in the Lake District, as his father, grandfather and ancestors did. So he does. But in his case, he has episodes elsewhere: as an Oxford undergraduate; as someone who works for the UNESCO World Heritage programme. These are interesting, worthwhile experiences. But they serve to confirm for him that shepherding in a traditional community, with all its difficulties and privations is all that he really wants to do in life, and it matters very deeply to him. He writes lyrically about the seasons, about winter days when he bursts open the haybales to offer his sheep the smells and tastes of the long-forgotten summer. He talks of the complexities of breeding, nourishing and bringing on his stock, always with his family by his side. His writing isn't always faultless - I became irritated at hios frequent misuse of the term 'disinterested'. But on balance it's a lyrically-written though realistic look at a way of life that's tough, unremitting in its demands, but ultimately important and worthwhile. To see if it's for you, just look at the last page- it won't spoil the plot - and in reading it, you'll discover that this book is in fact a love story by a man who loves the place where he lives, and his own place within it. ( )

A frank and non-sugar-coated view of modern shepherding in northern England. The highs, the lows, the challenges, and the rewards conveyed in often-lyrical descriptions. ( )

This read just as good as "Pastoral Song," but focuses more on the rhythms of shepherding as a way of life. It isn't wandering fields and sitting with sheep, it's a much more involved process for modern farmers to both care for and improve their flocks as a livelihood. James' pride in his work comes through in every chapter. ( )

I read this on a visit to the Lake District for my cousins wedding - it seemed appropriate for the trip. Its an interesting book which makes sheep farming sound like a complete nightmare! I quite enjoyed it whilst also finding the voice a little annoying at times. ( )

I loved this book. Every time I picked it up to read, I realized I was happy and excited to continue with it. The subject matter is close to my heart. There were plenty of things and ideas that resonated with me as I have lived my life taking care of livestock albeit on a much smaller level. For example I have to continually defend my dislike of winter snow and over abundance of unseasonal rain to my non farm type friends. Here I could say ' yes! Exactly.' The book itself is very well written. I felt like I could see the landscape described and could envision each scene as the author described it.

The story encompassed much more than a story about sheep. There was a lot about family and history and the importance of tradition. I recommend this book! ( )