Customer Reviews

The Mitford Years: At Home in Mitford / A Light in the Window / These High, Green Hills / Out to Canaan / A New Song (5 Volume Set)

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I was encouraged to read these books by a few people. Normally a British police procedural mystery reader, I found myself to be hooked with the first book. I very much enjoyed the characterization employed by Jan Karon as I had clear pictures in my mind of all the people and animals. Also, the town of Mitford is charming and I think it exists in each of our 50 states. While we all might aspire to be citizens of Mitford, certainly many events occurred which probably wouldn't in the "real" realm of things. But I very much enjoyed Father Tim's unfettered faith in God; something I am exploring myself these days. I am not Episcopalian nor do I know much about it but Karon provided enough information for me to understand the basics and kind of wish maybe I was one. The town residents ranging from Miss Sadie to Louella to Coot to Percy to Esther, etc were all clearly presented and there was a great deal of humor involved with their antics. There was also alot of emotion involved in this series...but not all cries are bad ones, some of them are refreshing. Pick up the first book in the series, you will be hooked.

I have read the first four books in this series and find them to be best fiction I have read in years! They are refreshing and totally engaging. I just fell in love with Father Tim and all the other characters. I don't remember when I have had such fun reading a series, and been so blessed by the solid faith and stamina (as well as the humanity) of the characters in the books. Thanks Jan Karon. God has given you a gift of light to share in a world of unmentional fiction. Go, Girl! Leah Johnson

This 5-volume set would make a lovely gift for someone who likes uplifting reading. The books are well-plotted, the characters well drawn, and the overall effect one that makes the reader feel a PART of Mitford. Having all five of the main books in the series at once would be a grand and comforting thing, because as soon as you finish one, you can't wait to start the next one! Father Tim is the type of rector we all wish we had, even those of us who have wonderful clergy in our home churches! I became an Episcopalian after marrying a man raised in the Episcopal Church. It was the efforts of a clergyman with charisma and warmth like Father Tim who finally convinced me to be confirmed in the Episcopal Church. Reading these books is like taking an extended visit in another parish, where church is familiar, but different, and the people are friendly. Once you go to Mitford, you'll never want to leave!

I fell in love with the Mitford books, like so many others. I read them over again when I need a renewal. I am not religious but I believe the way Father Tim lives his life is an example that can be set for us all. I try to use his words each day "Make me a blessing to someone today."

Awakened in the night after reading the 3rd book. Thinking about Percy's advertising, I began by smiling, then a stifled chuckle and then the bed started to shake as I could not keep from laughing out loud!.... Husband thought it was either an earthquake or a seizure!

Mitford is the kind of place that we would all love to live.... a slpeey little town in the mountains where you know your neighbors. I recommend buying these books... and curling up in your favorite chair with a warm blanket and cup of hot chocolate! Turn the phones off and slip away... I guarentee that you won't want to come back!

Just wanted to say that the Mitford series is a very special read. As a christian, it was very encouraging and inspiring! Some books you really hate to end and I certainly hope that Jan Koran will continue to write about Father Tim and all of the wonderful people (characters)she has introduced to us. It was a delight to read all five books!

I have read all the Midford books but this one was my favorite. I only wish Jan Karon would continue her storyline with the new pastor that took Father Tims place. Jan Karon has such a talent of writing in a way that makes the reader feel they personally know all the characters.

I discovered the Mitford series as I rediscovered my heritage in the Episcopal church. The descriptions of the chapel, town and characters of Mitford made me feel as though I had visited and worshipped with them often. Jan Karon's words give each character their pecularities, especially the scriptural dog, Barnabas, in a way that can only make you love them warts and all. The Rector proves the idea that endless love is available to us all, regardless of age. The kind of love that is an affirmation to our desire to live happily everafter. I often wonder how the Good Father, his friends and family are doing, as I anxiously await the next book in the series. Do yourself a favor and visit Mitford.

These novels are like a bag of peanuts. You pick one up and, the first thing you know, you are putting down the last one wishing there were at least 20 or 30 more. Well written, enlightening, inspirational, comforting, and intelligent are just a few adjectives that come to mind. I have also read A Common Life and Patches of Godlight, also by Jan Karon. Ms. Karon must be a special lady, because her novels, my friends, are very special. This response, by a busy working professional who never reads many novels. But I would make the time to read as many as Mr. Karon has the time to write! My sister has loved them as well as other relatives, my professional coach is reading them with delight... What more can I say?