The Way Home: How a Naive Single Mom Built her House in the Forest

by Terry Faubert

What does it take to achieve a life’s goal, to follow a precious dream through to reality? Money? Influential connections? Knowledge or skills? In the spring of 1983, Terry Faubert hadn’t much of those as she set out to move to the country with her young son, her cat, and little else. Longing to raise her five-year-old in tune with nature, she planned somehow to make a life for them out in the forest. She would need to find land that she could purchase with her scant savings and to build a house they could live in. She had never built anything before and had no idea how to go about it. Small and slight, naive and inexperienced, Terry had little awareness that spring day of the hurdles and challenges ahead. This is her story—a story of determination and perseverance, of improbable ideas and unlikely successes.-----"...a free spirit with sheer determination. It reflects the way of that era. It is a delightful story, lots of warm-heartedness, some humour and beautiful descriptions of (Terry’s) surroundings.”—Winnie Ferrier, Powell River, B.C. -----"I would recommend to others to read. It’s a charming tale with highs and lows along the way and it is real life not fiction.”—Diane Fraser, Newcastle, U.K. -----"I really enjoyed reading (The Way Home). I think it’s very well written and it kept my interest right through. I really applaud (Terry’s) skill and determination...building a house wouldn’t be within the remit of many women—me included!”—Carol Jones, Norwich, U.K. -----"...a good storyteller and lots of life experiences...inspiring...very well written and flows through time in a logical and pleasant fashion. (Terry’s) life changes, son’s growth and house construction are all woven together masterfully.”—Margy Lutz, consultant, Powell River, B.C.

150 pages, Paperback

Published June 6, 2019

Reviews

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

This easy-to-read book has you engaged from start to finish and I enjoyed it.
Terry, you've got guts!!! I can't even begin to imagine what it would take to build my own house, out in the country, with all of my savings (even if I had any). And you did it. How scary but also rewarding at the end of it. You must have thought that you could do anything you sent your mind to by then?! An inspiration for your children and grandchildren. And now, years later, what a historical record you've presented the world with. In some ways of a time much simpler, with less restriction. I wonder how many people could take that path now without reference to the internet?
You're an inspiration and this book is a wonderful read, thank you dear Brookler :D

[Sarah Coller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was written by one of my online Bookcrossing friends. I read through this fun and inspiring memoir tonight while the kids were having their movie night. I really enjoyed it! My husband and I talk about buying some land, moving off grid, starting from scratch---but really, I don't think we could do this. I loved hearing all the sweet stories of Jody---he seemed like a really joyful kid. Thanks for sharing your story with us, friend. Incredible.

[Dace ჯ · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was very interesting to read about Terry's quest to buy a piece of land in the forest and build a house. I can only admire her gumption! Her descriptions of everyday with her son and his birthdays, for example, made me think that he had a wonderful mom and wonderful childhood growing up in the nature.

[Kirstin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Terry's and Jody's story about moving out from Vancouver into the Canadian woods.With sheer determination and a lot of hard physical work she sets out to build a new home for her and her son.
A quick read, enjoyable and never say a woman can't build her own house!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!