Boston Globe
“The story of [Price’s] growing up in one of those flat, boring ‘How do I get out of here?’ states: Iowa. Yet readers from any state will identify with his narrative...Call[s] to mind the self-deprecating humor and startling honesty of writer Anne Lamott...But the wonder of this book is how such humor is balanced by a Thoreau-like sensitivity, to the natural world and other things...Each chapter is a delicate weave of the I and the eye, of self and world...Whether he is writing about fatherhood, or marriage, or gardening, or snow geese, readers will be captivated by his honest and funny search for meaning, for belonging, for home.”
Tucson Citizen
“Highly recommended...[An] excellent book...With a conservationist's eye for both detail and clarity, Price's experiences evoke the richness of rural America and reflect an authenticity. Whether it's about wading in a creek, feeding wild burros or hiking through buffalo grass, his perceptive writing is reminiscent of a 21st century Thoreau.”
Library Journal
[Price's] amusing tone, including his ability to freely poke fun at himself, works exceptionally well here. Recommended for large public and academic libraries.
Omaha World Herald
“A delightful read...Price adds touches of humor at just the right times in ways recalling the writing of David Sedaris. Price's portrayal of a young man dealing with the occasional hard truth of life is funny at times, moving at others and always engaging. Ultimately, what makes the book work is that Price is a sympathetic person. We find ourselves caring about him.”
The Iowan
“If David Sedaris and Annie Dillard had a literary love child and raised him in Iowa, he would write like this...The landscape of Price’s memoir is a grace-filled territory of wit, wisdom, and, most of all, great compassion. Well worth a visit.”
Lincoln Journal Star, 4/27/08
“Transcends the genre, because it reflects on topics such as familial bonds, spirituality and humor...Price is a fine writer. He has a knack for tidy, unforced metaphors and rooting lofty ideas in simple events. He also employs self-deprecating humor in a way that is mostly convincing and genuinely funny.”
Orion “Book Notes” column
“Part Garrison Keillor, part backyard naturalist, Price writes with self-effacing humor and heart.”
E/The Environmental Magazine
“It may not be an environmental story, per se, but Price’s memories are fused by his awareness of place...And his deep-rooted fondness for Iowa never falters.”
Daily Iowan 7/10/08
“Emotionally resonant”