Reviews for The Plain Reader, The

The average rating for The Plain Reader, The based on 2 reviews is 3.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2012-06-30 00:00:00 Peter Smith A series of articles written as reflections on the plain life. I one of those who long for simplicity, a pulling back from the pace the world sets for us if we let it. But I have to admit, this book challenged me and humbled me. How far am I really willing to go? Not as far as these folk, I know better now. I don't really want the care of horses as much as I admire and appreciate them anew. I don't want to wear clothes quite as modest as their's in the heat of a southern summer. And I know for certain that the man I am married to is less further along this path than I am, so that puts the brakes on a great number of other choices I see as so wise. Last night my girls put in some microwave popcorn as we watched a movie. I knew that popping our own would be healthier, but I caved in to convenience at the end of a long day. I missed the taste of homemade and recognized it as a good step: Being able to tell the difference between counterfeit and real and willing to make a change. Candlelight at night. Growing my own vegetables. Keeping the radio and television off. Building in time to meditate on the Lord on a daily basis. I guess we can be a little "plain," and I'm good with that. I pray that He makes me more day by day. This book was an excellent tool in His hands to work upon me.

Review # 2 was written on 2015-01-02 00:00:00 Toby Lauterbach The self-righteousness is hard to swallow. Well done to these people, who can live the Amish or Amish-ish way, but they leave little middle ground for the rest of us. Wendell Berry's sole essay is far and away the most intelligent and readable of this collection. I read the book hoping for inspiration for a simpler life and instead got a bunch of self-congratulatory people, so pleased with themselves for keeping their heads in the sand.