Starting A New Life In Rural America: 21 Things You Need to Know Before You Make Your Move [Paperback]

Ragnar Benson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 2006

Has the threat of urban terrorism, debacles like the disastrous response to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans or just the general hassle of city life got you thinking about moving to the country? Good idea, but before you pull up stakes, here's a chance to learn about some of the realities of rural living that you might never have faced in your city or suburban home. Ragnar Benson grew up on a farm and has lived in the sticks for decades, and he has helped dozens of transplants settle into their new homes in the country. Now he has gathered his advice into this handy familiarization manual to introduce you to some of the issues you need to know about life in rural communities. Get an informed head-start on the adventure, independence and tranquility of a new life in rural America.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Ragnar Benson is America's most-esteemed survival expert. He has written more than 20 books for Paladin throughout the years on a variety of topics covering everything from weapons to politics to survival medicine.

Product Details

• Paperback: 184 pages
• Publisher: Paladin Press (January 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1581604939
• ISBN-13: 978-1581604931
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.8 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #57,214 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #96 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Hiking & Camping > Instructional

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

32 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars NativeHoustonian, February 9, 2007

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Hiding-out-with-my-Kindle (Houston, Texas United States) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Starting A New Life In Rural America: 21 Things You Need to Know Before You Make Your Move (Paperback)

This is a great book to start with if you think you want to move to 'the sticks', as the author puts it. Benson's writing is strightforward, easy to read, and right to the point. This is not a detailed everything-about-everything book, but he does give links to useful information if you choose to pursue a certain topic further -- one reason it might be wise to start with this book as a means to see which (if any) more books you might need to purchase.

Benson covers everything from picking your land, real estate issues, dealing with pesky 'critters' and managing your septic tank, to integrating smoothly into rural community life and rural etiquette. I have extended family that grew up and reside in the country, but I didn't know nearly as much about their lives as I thought I did. This book helped me realize there is a big difference between country living on an acre or two, with a little extra grass to mow and room for a garden, and truly RURAL living. After reading this book, you will know without a doubt whether or not rural living is for you. I highly reccommend this book as a great place to start.

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars If you are thinking of moving to the country, read this first., September 21, 2008

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The Hermit "The Hermit" (Appalachia) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Starting A New Life In Rural America: 21 Things You Need to Know Before You Make Your Move (Paperback)

In 1986, I left the Marine Corps and moved to a sparsely settled county in the mountains of Appalachia. I've lived here ever since. Having that experience, I can say that Benson is very astute at pointing out issues that can arise in a rural environment, and in suggesting methods of dealing with them. The book costs very little, and if it saves you from just one gaffe in your new surroundings, it will be money well spent.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent overall summary, May 27, 2008

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Bigbear77 (Northern Colorado) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Starting A New Life In Rural America: 21 Things You Need to Know Before You Make Your Move (Paperback)

Excellent starting point for those contemplating a move, as well as a great tool for review for those who are well along in their preparations. The chapters are thorough enough to cover the essential aspects of each step (energy, food, transportation, etc.) and give sufficient information to point one in the right direction for further study. As with all of Benson's books, lots of hard-won, practical advice.