Nathan Coulter book review

Book Review of
Nathan Coulter

Author: Wendell Berry
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Publisher Summary:

Nathan Coulter, Wendell Berry’s first book, was published in 1960 when he was twenty-seven. In his first novel, the author presents his readers with their first introduction to what would become Berry’s life’s work, chronicling through fiction a place where the inhabitants of Port William form what is more than community, but rather a “membership” in interrelatedness, a spiritual community, united by duty and bonds of affection for one another and for the land upon which they make their livelihood.

When young Nathan loses his grandfather, Berry guides readers through the process of Nathan’s grief, endearing the reader to the simple humanity through which Nathan views the world. Echoing Berry’s own strongly held beliefs, Nathan tells us that his grandfather’s life “couldn’t be divided from the days he’d spent at work in his fields.” Berry has long been compared to Faulkner for his ability to erect entire communities in his fiction, and his heart and soul have always lived in Port William, Kentucky. In this eloquent novel about duty, community, and a sweeping love of the land, Berry gives readers a classic book that takes them to that storied place.

Lynn's Review

Nathan Coulter book review

Nathan Coulter was Wendell Berry’s first novel. It is the third book in the Port William series that I have read. I enjoyed this book because it introduced some of the characters in the series, but I think Wendell Berry’s writing got better as we wrote more Port William books. The books do not have to be read in order. I would recommend starting with Hannah Coutler. I also enjoyed Nathan Catlett.

Nathan Coutler is the story of a family and a family farm. It is a story of life, death, grief, hardship, and more.

Wendel Berry makes you feel like you are part of the story. He draws you into the time and place in a way very few authors can. His books are not fast paced, but they are so good. Nathan Coulter is a little over 100 pages, so it is a short easy read.

If you love Wendell Berry I think you will enjoy this one.

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