3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Ahhh...to be back in Mitford!, Jun 13 2003
There is just something special about Mitford, North Carolina. Jan Karon has created a magical yet ordinary place, with memorable, endearing characters. I love these novels and enjoy each and every trip I take back.
In the 3rd installment, things are looking up! Father Timothy and Cynthia are settling into married life, and the marvels at having a soul mate after Tim's 60-plus years of bachelorhood has yet to stop amazing him. Their first year will definitely be an adventurous one -- a camping trip gone awry; a 90th birthday party for Timothy's favorite parishioner, Sadie Baxter; the opening of the new nursing home, Hope House; as well as a few newcomers to the Mitford community. And of course all of our favorite characters, like Dooley, Mule and Fancy Skinner, and J.C. Hogan, and places, like The Grill, The Porter Place, and Fernback are back in full swing. Reading these books feel like the best a family reunion has to offer.
A helpful hint for those who are reading the books in order: Book 6 actually fits in between book 2 and 3 -- it is a detailed story of Timothy and Cynthia's wedding. I read it before reading These High, Green Hills. I suggest doing this if you are the type of reader that likes things in chronological order.
I can't wait to continue on with the series. There is a certain beauty about these books, a calming, soothing beauty that makes me want to pack up and move to Mitford! Although not novels of huge, twisting, turning action, Jan Karon manages to turn the ordinary things of life into great milestones. I applaud her and the rewards I receive every time I visit.
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Mitford and Mayberry, Dec 17 2003
Jan Karon is a gifted author who writes of simpler times and ordinary folks. I was hooked at once after reading the first book in the series. Each book keeps getting better as Father Tim and Cynthia and their friends live their busy productive lives in a small mountain community.
People who enjoyed Andy Griffith and the Mayberry TV shows will feel the same warmth and joy in Mitford stories.
Although there is a strong Christian message throughout, these books are for people of all faiths. The characters are outstanding, so real they could be people you know (or wish you knew). You will marvel at the surprising twists and turns as the stories evolve.
Read the first book and continue with the series for sheer pleasure. Share this book and the others in the series with friends and neighbors. They are so special, so satisfying, and contain a powerful message of hope. All ages will benefit and be uplifted.
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Feel a little better when you're done, Jun 23 2003
By A Customer
In modern times where any bit of 'entertainment' can leave you feeling a bit down, its nice to have something that lets you walk away with a smile. The quality writing and uplifting story with solid values can make you feel grounded as well as full of hope. The world is an amazing place and though this book is fiction, it gives a positive perspective that may help you get a fresh focus. The characters from Mitford always have something going on and Father Tim seems like someone that you could really enjoy knowing.
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