Reviewed By: Luke Croll - RAM
![[4 stars]](../images/spots/2_paw_40.gif)
The Olive Farm
Carol Drinkwater
Class/Genre: Non-Fiction AutoBiography
Abacus; 2001; £7.99 (English pounds); 342pp
Classification: Adult non-fiction (autobiography)
Carol Drinkwater is an actress probably better known for her role in the TV series 'All Creatures Great and Small' than she is for her novels. In this book, she tells the story of her renovation of a villa in the South of France and her relationship with Michel.
I am not someone who normally reads autobiographies, but I made an exception for this one, having heard positive reviews of it elsewhere. I am pleased to say that I made the right choice. Drinkwater writes accessibly, mixing humour and seriousness when necessary, and sounding very human. There is a smattering of French words and she makes the locations come alive. If you have ever visited the South of France, you will immediately feel at home with her vivid descriptions and her accurate portrayal of the life, the people and the culture.
The book is reasonably long and so charts a long time in the development of both of her relationships - the relationship with the farm, and with Michel. Enjoyable, readable and a genuinely happy book. If you are a Francophile, you will enjoy it, and if you like books of this genre, you will like it.
Luke Croll - RAM
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM
Luke Croll - Conference interpreter and translator
http://lukecroll.translatorscafe.com
If you enjoy this website, a link would be appreciated. |