The Face of Appalachia: Portraits from the Mountain Farm

Rating:
Summary: Face of Appalachia-One Terrific Photo Book
Review: This new book is a one-of-a kind masterpiece of photographic work. There are a hundred or so photographs and they show a true view of life in the Appalachian region. They are timeless and haunting. There is a wonderful section in the back called "Oral Histories" where each person photographed tells a story about their life-which is captivating in itself. That, combined with the top-notch photographs, makes this a unique treat-beautiful images and intriguing stories from real lives. It will appeal to photographers and non-photographers alike. The images look like they could have been taken in the 1940's, but are from the last 25 years or so. Mr. Barnwell obviously spent much time getting to know these people, even being invited into their homes to record private moments in their lives. They are not the stereotypical views most photographers from outside the area do, or the exploitive poor-white-trash portrayed by other photographers like Shelby Lee Adams. But they are not simply a romantic view of days gone by, either. Rather they capture the true heart and soul of these amazing people-showing the beauty and the flaws in unflinching detail. The images are not only stunning but extremely well reproduced. The book is well organized, beautifully designed, and has wonderful production qualities. It's also a bargain compared to prices of similar quality photo books I've bought.

Rating:
Summary: Terrific, truthful portrayal of Appalachia
Review: Wow! What can I say. This is one beautiful book. I'm 70 and grew up living this lifestyle. I still have a farm here in Kentucky. Finally there is someone who "gets it" and shows Appalachia as it really is. Mr. Barnwell understands the people and connects with them. Through touching photographs and captivating conversations he portrays the heart and soul of the region and it's people. You know, this is how people across this great country used to live, it's just that it hung on here longer due to the isolation. So if you want to see how you father, mother, grandparents, and great grandparents lived, take a look at this book. It is one of a kind from what I've seen. I can identify with every scene, but I think folks everywhere can too, even if they weren't raised here. I think great pictures can transcend culture and be meaningful to anyone with an appreciation of life. It's one of the prettiest done books I've seen as well-great print quality and design. Folks will look back on this a hundred years from now and realize what a masterpiece of work Mr. Barnwell has created, capturing this life the way he did. I highly recommend it!