The Fate of Family Farming: Variations on an American Idea

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Summary: A candid assessment of ever-changing farm technology
Review: Former philosophy professor Ronald Jager presents The Fate Of Family Farming: Variations On An American Idea, a thoughtful examination of the history and future of the American family farm as a concept and as a way of life. Exploring both the ideals of "agrarianism" and the practical realities of agribusiness, as well as anecdotal portraits of present-day maple syrup, eggs and corn, milk, and apple farms, and a candid assessment of ever-changing farm technology, The Fate Of Family Farming lives up to its title by offering not only an in-depth portrait of the American farm today but also well-reasoned projections for the American farm of the future, for good or for ill. Very highly recommended reading for anyone concerned with the seeming demise of the family farm in the face of the global phenomena of agribusiness.

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Summary: Perfect side-dish to your organic diet
Review: I love food, especially of the locally-grown, organic type. This love comes from childhood memories of going to the farmers market, the excitement of being able to eat creamy spinach again after a nine month lull when it was out of season... But I've been shopping in a supermarket for the last 30 years, and feel as if I've fully lost contact with how the food actually to my fridge. This book comes to the rescue. The author talks about history of family farms in US, and then does 4 case studies of today's working farms. Maple syrup, Milk, Chickens, they are all in there. Great stuff, he writes well, and kept me turning page after page. Highly recommended to those who enjoy intelligent writing and good food.