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Period Farms
Wartime Farm
During World War Two Britain had to look to the land to provide the produce it had previously shipped in from abroad, meaning huge changes on both the agricultural and domestic scenes. Accompanying an 8-part BBC series and written by the three presenters who spend a year living on a reconstructed farm from the era, Wartime Farm sets these changes within a historical context and looks at the day-to-day life of that time. Exploring a fascinating chapter in Britain's recent history, we see how our predecessors lived and thrived in difficult conditions with extreme frugality and ingenuity. From growing your own vegetables and keeping chickens in the back yard, to having to 'make do and mend', many of the challenges faced by wartime Britons have resonance today. Fascinating historical detail and atmospheric story-telling make this a truly compelling read.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
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602 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 3, 2016
Having finished watching (and reading) the story of how steam changed the British Isles I felt I wanted to go back over some of the other adventures of Ruth and her companions.
I have read and reviewed a number of their books (which also relate to their TV documentary series) but I realised I have overlooked a number of them. So here is my attempt and trying to correct this.
The wartime farm obvious pretty much explains the time period the documentary was set in. This was a time my parents were young children in and as such can remember many of the events depicted and discussed. In fact as result of many of their stories I have long since wanted to know more about what they went through and experienced.
This book pretty much follows and expands on the TV show which rather than focusing on world events focused more on the lives of those on a farm and how they changed. Having grown up in a farming village it is fascinating to see so many of the changes that were discussed in the book are still evident today (well at least while I was growing up, it seems that the world is changing at an ever increasing pace, so much so village life seems almost unrecognisable).
I maintain that modern history is something I wish I learned more about at school - though sadly if you had asked me back then I would have refuted that claim. I guess as time goes by you get to a point where you look back and realise you no longer read about history but realise you have lived it. I suspect that is very much the case for my parents and the events of this book.
I have read and reviewed a number of their books (which also relate to their TV documentary series) but I realised I have overlooked a number of them. So here is my attempt and trying to correct this.
The wartime farm obvious pretty much explains the time period the documentary was set in. This was a time my parents were young children in and as such can remember many of the events depicted and discussed. In fact as result of many of their stories I have long since wanted to know more about what they went through and experienced.
This book pretty much follows and expands on the TV show which rather than focusing on world events focused more on the lives of those on a farm and how they changed. Having grown up in a farming village it is fascinating to see so many of the changes that were discussed in the book are still evident today (well at least while I was growing up, it seems that the world is changing at an ever increasing pace, so much so village life seems almost unrecognisable).
I maintain that modern history is something I wish I learned more about at school - though sadly if you had asked me back then I would have refuted that claim. I guess as time goes by you get to a point where you look back and realise you no longer read about history but realise you have lived it. I suspect that is very much the case for my parents and the events of this book.
January 12, 2014
Once again a brilliantly produced book by Ruth Goodman, Alex Langlands and Peter Ginn to accompany their latest tv series (Well at the time of reading this. At the time of writing this review Tudor Monastery Farm has been on tv).
This book covers all the details plus a little extra of what was covered in the series, seeing how people, specifically farming communities coped in World War Two. It is full of a mix of both newly introduced modern techniques of the time and also a looking back to the old ways of farming that their fathers and grandfathers etc. used to use in order to produce as much as possible in a time when everything became a lot scarcer. It doesn't just talk about farming, but also the social aspects which all had an impact on the lives of people through the war and after which is also very interesting.
Wonderfully written book, I'd recommend both these book series and the tv series to anyone who fancies an entertaining armchair history lesson! :)
This book covers all the details plus a little extra of what was covered in the series, seeing how people, specifically farming communities coped in World War Two. It is full of a mix of both newly introduced modern techniques of the time and also a looking back to the old ways of farming that their fathers and grandfathers etc. used to use in order to produce as much as possible in a time when everything became a lot scarcer. It doesn't just talk about farming, but also the social aspects which all had an impact on the lives of people through the war and after which is also very interesting.
Wonderfully written book, I'd recommend both these book series and the tv series to anyone who fancies an entertaining armchair history lesson! :)
January 13, 2019
Take a step back in time...Based on the BBC TV series, this is an excellent companion book. It follows the trials and tribulations associated with surviving on a farm during WWII. It is quite thorough, including things such as agricultural production, meat and dairy produce, recipes, techniques for preserving and canning, how to make shampoo from soapwart, creating a kiln for firing roof tiles, rotating vegetable crops so you have a supply all year round, rationing and how to sub certain things, all sorts. It is very well illustrated and things are very well explained step by step. There are also sections on the general war time history that accompany each chapter and include information about land girls, the Home Guard, propaganda, US forces and billeting, even POWs. Overall I enjoyed this book and it will work as an excellent reference source for my writing. I might even try some of the recipes!
March 30, 2021
This book is an excellent companion to the British TV series Wartime Farm. It provides extra background and insights. I would still recommend reading this, even without watching the TV series. In many ways people think of WWII in terms of battles, the blitz, GIs, etc. What this book does is to spotlight the efforts and lives of those who fought the war by providing the much needed food to support a country full of people. The blockades meant that the farmers had to radically change the way they worked the land in order to get the greatest nutritional yield. This book provides huge insight into the war on the homefront.
February 2, 2021
2021 bk 20. The companion book to the television documentary Wartime Farm, this book extends the information of the documentary with the recipes cooked, fuller depictions of tools, and the spirit of British farmers who worked at peak efficiency during WWII in an effort to feed their nation. This is one of the best 'companion' books I've encountered in continuing to provide the spirit of the documentary and enhancing its storytelling. I will return to this book, if nothing else than for the onion recipe.
May 22, 2023
Fantastic book packed full of information. A real insight into life in the countryside during World War 2 how it impacted on everyday life and the hard work ensuring that food supplies were kept going
July 2, 2013
This is the complimentary book to the series on the BBC. It is split into eight chapters, one on each of the parts that they covered in each episode. They are well know for following as closely as possible the period of time that they are filming, having done similar exercise for a Victorian farm.
There are lots of images in this book, along with instructions and recipes from that period of time. The sections are short and sweet, and include interview and staged activities.
It was generally good, but I felt that it could have done with more opinions from the authors and how they felt replicating the period.
There are lots of images in this book, along with instructions and recipes from that period of time. The sections are short and sweet, and include interview and staged activities.
It was generally good, but I felt that it could have done with more opinions from the authors and how they felt replicating the period.
July 12, 2016
Very good book showing how Farming was done in WW2.
Very Interesting. Loved this book. This book was put together after The Television Series.
What I found interesting in this book was how they used to build all the stone walls. From The Old Flint Stones.
Very Informative book. Great for anyone who is into WW2.
Very Interesting. Loved this book. This book was put together after The Television Series.
What I found interesting in this book was how they used to build all the stone walls. From The Old Flint Stones.
Very Informative book. Great for anyone who is into WW2.
November 19, 2020
Scarcity and Hard Times breed strong men & women.
There's a lot I learned from this book. I, like most, have read all there is to be read about WW II and knew about the rations and war time effort on the part of civilians from attacked nations like the UK but this book broadened the scope of the latter. It was fascinating and inspiring to read about how different groups of people, some from the most unlikely backgrounds, came together to help their countrymen and also keep the war spirits up. All three of these historians and archeologist illustrate how even the upper and delicate flowers of English society were moved by a strong sense of moral, religious and patriotic duty. Nobody, absolutely no one was made to be felt exempt from this. Leading historian and presented of these wonderful documentaries turned into books, perfectly illustrated this by putting examples of conscientious objectors who, despite their strong pacifism and timidity, contributed to their nation by participating in farms or elsewhere, to give a service that could keep civilians safe and the fragile economy going.
This sense of community is something my grandparents, may they rest in peace, strongly emphasized even they reminisced on this era.
Their message resonates with the message in this book: we are all in this together. For better or for worse, we are married to a nation and thereby, obliged to protect and aid it in any way, shape or form we can.
For homemakers, domestic goddess and other curious minds, this book also serves as a good cooking manual with valuable gardening tips for those interested in potential gardeners who want to start their own garden or are looking to be involved in a community garden. The recipes are for the most filling and nutritious because in a time of scarcity with the fear of being bombed and receiving their city countrymen, there was a strong emphasis on eating healthy to remain able bodies and strong to continue with the daily tasks. There's also some interesting home remedies.
Last but not least, this book is another reminder that as long as one remembers the past without being trapped by it, one will never feel alone. The sacrifices and some of the personal struggles and obstacles shared by Ruth Goodman, Peter Gin and Alex Langland about some British citizens that had to stand their ground to obtain recognition, fairness and dignity were remarkable and inspiring.
There's a lot I learned from this book. I, like most, have read all there is to be read about WW II and knew about the rations and war time effort on the part of civilians from attacked nations like the UK but this book broadened the scope of the latter. It was fascinating and inspiring to read about how different groups of people, some from the most unlikely backgrounds, came together to help their countrymen and also keep the war spirits up. All three of these historians and archeologist illustrate how even the upper and delicate flowers of English society were moved by a strong sense of moral, religious and patriotic duty. Nobody, absolutely no one was made to be felt exempt from this. Leading historian and presented of these wonderful documentaries turned into books, perfectly illustrated this by putting examples of conscientious objectors who, despite their strong pacifism and timidity, contributed to their nation by participating in farms or elsewhere, to give a service that could keep civilians safe and the fragile economy going.
This sense of community is something my grandparents, may they rest in peace, strongly emphasized even they reminisced on this era.
Their message resonates with the message in this book: we are all in this together. For better or for worse, we are married to a nation and thereby, obliged to protect and aid it in any way, shape or form we can.
For homemakers, domestic goddess and other curious minds, this book also serves as a good cooking manual with valuable gardening tips for those interested in potential gardeners who want to start their own garden or are looking to be involved in a community garden. The recipes are for the most filling and nutritious because in a time of scarcity with the fear of being bombed and receiving their city countrymen, there was a strong emphasis on eating healthy to remain able bodies and strong to continue with the daily tasks. There's also some interesting home remedies.
Last but not least, this book is another reminder that as long as one remembers the past without being trapped by it, one will never feel alone. The sacrifices and some of the personal struggles and obstacles shared by Ruth Goodman, Peter Gin and Alex Langland about some British citizens that had to stand their ground to obtain recognition, fairness and dignity were remarkable and inspiring.
July 19, 2020
I am a huge fan of Ruth Goodman, Peter Ginn, and Alex Langlands and have watched all their shows and read their books! Wartime Farm is definitely one of favourites! The amount of history knowledge and skills these three have is extraordinary. I loved watching them live on a wartime farm for a whole year and re-enact what it would have been like during WWII. Definitely one of my favourite wartime books and historical show!
May 7, 2022
Although not a scholarly work the book is filled full of interesting and important information that has been well researched. Part of the research is recreated experience: Manor Farm in Hampshire was turned into a World War II farm for twelve months. This was also made into 36 hour TV series. There are many very useful and informative illustrations.
March 26, 2021
The "Wartime Farm" television series is wonderful. Peter, Ruth and Alex make a fascinating time come alive. If you can, watch the series. If you can't, then the book is interesting but not nearly as good.
January 25, 2024
A very surprising read!! I did enjoy the book and it was easy to read!!
Lots of detail about the British people survived through WWII and the changes in policies that were created.
There is also a BBC program by the same name.
Lots of detail about the British people survived through WWII and the changes in policies that were created.
There is also a BBC program by the same name.
January 6, 2026
I skimmed this some time ago after getting it as a gift. Decided to read it all the way through and enjoyed most of it but found many sections far too long and dry. Good overall, even better if you skip the less interesting bits.
January 28, 2018
Perfect Companion
A great companion to the BBC TV show, highlighting many unsung war time heros.
Best enjoyed reading each section post episode
A great companion to the BBC TV show, highlighting many unsung war time heros.
Best enjoyed reading each section post episode
September 3, 2020
Recently, I found this series and fell in love. The book is a nice read but is not organized like show is. I'm sad it's over!
July 6, 2016
Wartime Farm is a book that closely looks into a lesser known aspect of WWII --- farming on the home front. Whether it is through recipes, do it yourself projects, historical photos and documents, or pictures from the television series, the pages convey the tumultuous time period the Brits tenaciously fought through. Paired with the earnest accounts by Peter, Ruth, and Alex, it captures not just the facts of British wartime, however, but the spirit as well. In this book, you will learn history, acquire skills, and be inspired by the philosophy of 'mend and make do' and 'keep calm and carry on.' Indeed, because of the fullness of head, hands, and heart involvement encompassed in this book, I believe that Wartime Farm is not just a history book, but a book for our generation as well. As Alex intimated:
"...on the home front we saw a level of co-operation and community action that I can't help but feel would serve us well today as we wallow in a cult of self-interest and individualism. I think what happened on the home front provides a blueprint for how, in difficult and austere times, human beings demonstrate a remarkable ability to come together and to share and care for the greater good of society."
Let's plant our own victory gardens, darn our worn socks, save those last bits of soap, make our own dinners, and most of all, band together. With our own war-like trials to fight through (climate change, political unrest, etc.) the practices in this book are just as important now as they were then. As displayed in the book, it is possible. Let's do it!
"...on the home front we saw a level of co-operation and community action that I can't help but feel would serve us well today as we wallow in a cult of self-interest and individualism. I think what happened on the home front provides a blueprint for how, in difficult and austere times, human beings demonstrate a remarkable ability to come together and to share and care for the greater good of society."
Let's plant our own victory gardens, darn our worn socks, save those last bits of soap, make our own dinners, and most of all, band together. With our own war-like trials to fight through (climate change, political unrest, etc.) the practices in this book are just as important now as they were then. As displayed in the book, it is possible. Let's do it!
April 29, 2013
If you enjoyed the TV series then the book is a nice souvenir and reminder of all the episodes you enjoyed. It is also great to have things like the recipes written down, and some things in chart form such as the timeline of the War from the perspective of the domestic population.The pictures are a mixture of achived material and photos from the series. Considering the current popularity of vintage fairs and ideas, this book will appeal to many younger people with its ideas about making shampoo from soapwort, or how to darn and repair your clothes or make toys from scrap. The book is a nicely produced hardback on heavy paper with a dull 1930's effect finish. Good gift for anyone who enjoyed the programme.
February 15, 2014
I loved the UK series and the companion book is filled with additional little known facts concerning how the British people fought the quiet war against starvation on the home front by growing massive crops on country farmland. Great!
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May 24, 2013Having watched the TV Series I found this book to be an interesting addition to the pleasure of watching it.
June 15, 2013
Really enjoyed this book: it made me want to watch the series again.
I read it quite quickly and wished that some of the chapters could have been a bit longer.
I read it quite quickly and wished that some of the chapters could have been a bit longer.
September 8, 2019
The book accompanies the BBC series. It is full of details and background information about what all they learned during their year on the wartime farm.
Enjoyable read
Enjoyable read
August 26, 2024
I loved the show. Book is great too!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews