I can't endorse this book enough. If not simply for the beauty of the writing but also for the way Swift chews over the choices facing his characters - a bit like a contemplative cow chewing its cud. Dairy farming is at the heart of the story, and the chain of events that lead a farmer's son to turn back on his birthright. In this context, it is a testament to the struggling of many against the crippling blows of mad cow, as well as foot and mouth disease. Not that this is laboured, for above all, the book offers a deft exploration of the ties that bind us.
BiP staff review by Sue
