Jayber Crow

By: Wendell Berry

Narrated by: Paul Michael

From the simple setting of his own barber shop, Jayber Crow, orphan, seminarian, and native of Port William, recalls his life and the life of his community as it spends itself in the middle of the 20th century.

Surrounded by his friends and neighbors, he is both participant and witness as the community attempts to transcend its own decline. And meanwhile Jayber learns the art of devotion and that a faithful love is its own reward.

©2001 Wendell Berry (P)2008 christianaudio.com

enjoyable storytelling

I have wanted to read Wendell Berry for quite some time now. I am so glad I finally did. I felt like there were really two stories here, Jayber's and the town's. Watching them weave together was part of what made this book so enjoyable. Both have dreams that are never quite realized, and some that are brutally extinguished. There is sorrow and joy and a good bit of comedy. The book presents some deep subjects in a simple and gentle way but definitely leaves you thinking. It presents a realistic if slightly sentimental picture of a small town, but having grown up in one and now living in another after a few years of urban dwelling, I thought it was very believable and honest.

well written. well read.

Like most well written books Jayber Crow was difficult to listen to. At times I was frustrated or angry at the characters. Things don't go as they ought. The ending isn't particularly satisfying, yet it does seem to reflect well the more sentimental human experiences. It is well worth the credit spent, because it makes you think.

The best I've heard in a long time.

I don't often write reviews, even though I listen to a lot of books. This book is worth the effort. It is well written, the character development is phenomenal. I was sad when it was over. You will not be disappointed!

What a Story

This story speaks of the brevity of life and the importance of telling those we love how much we love and cherish them.

Excellent book and narrator!

I loved this book! The story and language are beautiful. The narrator had the perfect accent and rhythm of speaking. Incredible!

A Transformative Story

I am so grateful for having listened to this audiobook. Wendell Berry weaves so much wisdom and beauty into this story. Though it is fiction, it feels very true to life. He describes people that I feel I have met. His writing makes me realize everyone's story is full of depth and meaning, tragedy and sorrow, and great potential for joy and even salvation. The narrator, Paul Michael, captured the essence of Berry's writing style in his 5-star performance. Looking forward to diving into more of the world of Port William in Berry's other novels.

American Classic

Tom Sawyer, Huck Finn, Atticus Finch, Jay Gatsby, Jayber Crow belong on the same list.

One of the best books I’ve ever read.

I love Wendell Berry’s writing and have read all of his fiction and many of his essays. This comes out on top for me. The final chapter is priceless.

Loved this

I was drawn in from the first few sentences, and listened as long as possible each day until the book was finished. And at the end, knowing it was soon to be the end of the book, I longed for it to continue.

One of the most intimate stories of life

I love the story telling and everything about this book. I really felt like I was the guy telling the story and I can relate to his life. It helped me appreciate life more