Really enjoyed this one. Proulx seems to be able to paint the picture of US rural life without making small town folks saints or stereotype red necks. The people are colourful (and as a small town girl, they are more than believable), with quirks, short comings and grit that should be admired. She touches upon major issues without allowing it to be THE issue of the book. There is a story (stories! - A series of them) which entertains before preaching.