Gubbeen

the long version

This is an exceptional insight into the running of a traditional farm, from how to look after your animals (poultry, pigs and cows) to cheese-making, smoking meats and growing your own fruit and veg. The book comprises of four voices Tom, Giana, Fingal and Clovisse who talk about their passions and positions on the farm. Tom has worked the land all his life, following the old farming ways of his forbearers; Giana controls the dairy as well as keeping a keen eye on the poultry; their son Fingal uses the pigs to make bacon and smoked goods from the Smokehouse (and has a side-line in creating beautiful knives for famous chefs); and their daughter Clovisse grows chemical-free vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers in the Kitchen Garden (this section comes out of a conversation with Joy Larckom, her mentor). Recipes are included in every section to illustrate and celebrate the farm produce, resulting in a truly inspirational read.