"Captivating… By turns edgy, moving, and hilarious,Farm Citymarks the debut of a striking new voice in American writing." –Michael Pollan, author ofThe Omnivore’s DilemmaandFood Rules
"You'll be hooked! If you're an Oaklander you'll enjoy the references to the people and places we all know. I read it in one sitting! (Dinner was late.)" -Yolanda Burrell, Founder of Pollinate Farm & Garden
When Novella Carpenter–captivated by the idea of backyard self-sufficiency as the daughter of two back-to-the-earth hippies–moves to a ramshackle house in inner-city Oakland and discovers a weed-choked, garbage-strewn abandoned lot next door, she closes her eyes and pictures heirloom tomatoes, a beehive, and a chicken coop.
What starts out as a few egg-laying chickens leads to turkeys, geese, and ducks. And not long after, along came two 300-pound pigs. And no, these charming and eccentric animals aren’t pets. Novella is raising these animals for dinner.
An unforgettably charming memoir, full of hilarious moments, fascinating farmer’s tips, and a great deal of heart,Farm Cityoffers a beautiful mediation on what we give up to live the way we do today.
Paperback Published by Penguin Books May 25, 2010| 288 Pages| 5-1/2 x 8-7/16| ISBN 9780143117285