Back to the Land

Lynda Hallinan, renowned gardening expert, narrates her delightful return to rural life in her deeply engaging memoir, Back to the Land. Born and raised on a dairy farm in the picturesque yet understated landscape of Waikato, Lynda initially fled to Auckland to pursue a career in journalism, vowing never to look back. However, fate had other plans when she met Jason, a man with a quintessential slice of rural paradise. Today, Lynda fully embraces country living on a 20-hectare property at the foot of the stunning Hunua Ranges, sharing her experiences with her husband Jason, their young son Lucas, and an eclectic menagerie of animals.

In Back to the Land, Lynda unravels a year's worth of her gardening adventures with her characteristic wit and boundless energy. The book is a tapestry of monthly accounts, vividly describing her transformation from city life to a self-sustained country lifestyle. As Lynda swaps high heels for gumboots and chic high street shops for online seed catalogues, she immerses herself in creating a sprawling vegetable garden and a heritage fruit orchard that any gardener would envy.

Each chapter is peppered with practical gardening advice, making the book not only a memoir but also a valuable resource for anyone interested in self-sufficiency and sustainable living. Readers will find tips on everything from planting seasonal vegetables to brewing home-crafted beverages. The narrative is enriched with Lynda's down-to-earth humour and infectious enthusiasm, capturing the essence of country life through the highs and lows, the triumphs, and the unexpected challenges.

The delights of rural living come alive through Lynda's vivid storytelling, detailed accounts of her daily routines, and the numerous characters, both human and animal, that populate her life. Whether she is discussing the antics of her geriatric ram, Rambo, or the joy of harvesting heirloom tomatoes, Lynda’s voice shines through, making Back to the Land a heartfelt tribute to rural living.

This book is a must-read for anyone yearning for a simpler life or anyone who simply loves a good story about reconnecting with nature. Lynda Hallinan’s narratives offer inspiration and practical advice, proving that a return to the land provides not just sustenance, but also soul-nourishing contentment and fulfillment.