9 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
2.0 out of 5 stars
Comprehensive, yes; compelling, no., December 6, 2010
This review is from: Folk Medicine in Southern Appalachia (Paperback)
Don't let the cover fool you - a terrific and fascinating topic is rendered into a bland, unpalatable narrative. The average reader will need a dictionary. Simple points become convoluted by overly-intellectual prose in a passive voice. (For example, "Paucity of information can result in erroneous conclusions about the prevalence of some health problems.") The author comes across as condescending towards mountain remedies - even effective traditions seem frowned upon.
This book is well documented, but lacks commentary from the people who used these remedies even though comments are readily available. An opportunity to present an entertaining and informative look at an important aspect of Appalachian heritage was wasted.
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