This is a book which I would have loved as a student. But that was forty years ago and, for better or worse, it does not speak so much to me now. It is perhaps naive in parts; that agriculture has turned the corner towards more environmentally friendly practices is a statement that just doesn't stand up to much scrutiny. It is nice to see signs of hope, but that should not be mistaken for a whole sector being reformed. 
 It is also definitely over-American in its style and message. The emphasis on personal emotions and grieving for the environment is not really my style.
I know that there is a newer editing, perhaps that is a little more realistic?
On the other hand, hope is important and perhaps if I was twenty again I would appreciate it more.