In this book Jimmy Carter writes about his childhood on his family’s Depression-era farm in Plains, Georgia. Waking up before dawn he helped out with tasks from a very early age and graduated to more complicated jobs as he got older. From plowing fields to making sausage, there was always something that needed to be done.

He also describes small town life, explores family dynamics, and discusses segregation. While many of the topics are serious, he throws in some very humorous anecdotes as well. It rambles at times but he always brings it back to his parents and the other people in his life who influenced him. An inspiring read.

Added this awhile ago after talking with Lana about how they stop by Carters bed and breakfast on their way back from Fl. Could not get into it. I like that it's read by Carter but it is slow. It is also a very weird read with racism and poverty in the south. Carter's white privilege is nauseating.

Listening to this one is much better than reading it. It’s an interesting read about Jimmy Carters life growing up. There were many moments that shocked me and educated me about that time period and his life. However, the book was not chronological and I didn’t really like that. Mr. Carter just talked and told stories in a grandpa on the porch kind of way. This was sweet but not what I was thinking the book would be like.

One of those books where touching imagery stands in your mind years after reading it. It is the story of Jimmy Carter's childhood and the shaping of his values. His vignettes remind us of those we have heard from elders in our own life, whose mettle was instilled by a colorful cast of characters, angels and sinners alike, during the vagaries of the Depression.

I have a deep respect for Jimmy Carter and this book cemented that for me. It was so interesting to learn about Carter's childhood and young adulthood. I listened to the audio performed by one of my favorite readers, Tom Stechschulte. The stories were funny, poignant, and lesson bearing. I was pleased to find that Carter is a terrific writer. Can't wait to read more by him.

Lots of insight into the childhood of Jimmy Carter and growing up as a small town farm boy. The style of the writing takes some effort to get used too, but once you get used to there are lots of interesting facts in the book. Might be easier to listen to this book on CD.

I was never a fan of Jimmy Carter as President. However I truly enjoyed this autobiography of his early life. It provided a lot of insight into life in the South in the first half of the twentieth century and reminded me of hints my parents and grandparents spoke of (guano sacks, aka "gunney sacks," clothing made from flour sacks, and "slop jars" - ewwwww!). It also tells of race relations in the years before the civil rights movement. I recommend this book highly.

Enjoyable. Exactly what the subtitle says: Memories of a Rural Boyhood. It could have been any boy growing up in Atlanta. And then you stop and think, "this little country boy grew up to be a President of the US. Huh!"

Boyhood Reflections

There are fewer and fewer people who have lived an authentic rural life. President Carter is one of the few modern farmer presidents. His knowledge of farming and agricultural practices is vast. His delivery style is warm and genteel. I enjoyed reading about his boyhood relationships and how they influenced his character and presidency.

I really enjoyed this book. Jimmy Carter describes his life as a young boy growing into a man in southern Georgia. He grew up during the Depression and reading about that time was amazing. He was a hard worker and had a hard life on a farm. It was refreshing to read about that time and the work ethic that he developed over time. I have a lot of respect for him now and reading this book made me feel that even more. I will be reading more of his books.

Former President Jimmy Carter delivers a warm homage to his rural boyhood and to his parents. Never saccharine, the book offers remembrances simply, matter-of-factly and with insight.

Aside from what one might think of his presidency, one is left thinking, "Will we ever again have a President who knows such practical things as tearing-down an old pickup truck or building a grain dryer with his own hands?"

The life of a regular, but thoughtful kid who became President.

This was a very nice read (or more accurately I should say listen since I was driving). I don't remember too much of Mr. Carter's presidency since I was young, but I'm glad to hear he is doing so much for world peace today.