What began as a dream of escaping the city led to the discovery of a century-old cottage, perfectly matching that dream. Moving to a small village in the heart of the Irish countryside marked the start of a new chapter for Philip Judge – a life lived in sight of Yellow Mountain.

This enchanting memoir begins and ends at Lughnasa, weaving through several years of country living as Philip, his Beloved, and later their two young sons navigate the joys and challenges of rural life.

Through the seasons, they embrace highs and lows: wellies and tweed are acquired, vegetable patches are cultivated, lambs are born, and calves are lost. There is health and happiness, illness and sorrow, and always the ever-changing weather. Despite mishaps and misunderstandings – including a memorable failure at Name That Grain! – the family finds themselves falling in love with the Irish countryside, ultimately discovering what it means to feel at home.

Somewhere between Edward Thomas and Henry Thoreau, Philip Judge crafts a luminous and profound story of outpost and inscape. Full of warmth, humour, and wisdom, this is a radiant and unforgettable reading experience. – Sebastian Barry