Description
Two middle-aged women, Leslie and Hope, traded their familiar urban environment outside Washington, DC for a log cabin in the heart of southern Appalachia. Part One of Real Country describes their growing disenchantment with urban life and the progression of incidents that set them searching for their inner Heidis. The second part of Real Country consists of 50 humorous letters recounting their adventures and misadventures as they tried to fit in among the mountain people. They will tickle your funny bone as you share their experiences involving communication, food, religion, politics and a variety of local customs. People considering a similar lifestyle change will gain insight into the challenges of becoming a foreigner in this rural part of the U.S., and an understanding of the need for a strong sense of humor while they work toward acceptance by the mountain people. Leslie Brunetsky's 'Real Country' is a hilarious expose of how ignorant we urban dwellers are when we head for green acres. Fresh from the politically charged environment of the nation's capital, Brunetsky and her partner discover everything they never wanted to know about surviving in Appalachia. 'Real Country' is a must for everyone who has yearned for the simple life, an unforgettable account of the transformation from corporate warrior to storyteller. ., .a delightful true story of two city gals making the transition into a rural mountain community. Well written, charming, humorous, and will keep the reader enthralled with their day-to-day adventures. Leslie Brunetsky's account of life in southern Appalachia is a delightful read. Warm, hilarious and insightful, it gives you a great sense of what it is likefor a transplanted New Jerseyite to acclimate to a very different culture. Each letter left me wanting more. As a stand-up comedian in New York City, I appreciate a good laugh. I found myself laughing out loud at Brunetsky's sidesplitting stories about her move from DC to the boonies. My previous impression of Appalachia changed from 'Dueling Banjos' and 'Deliverance' to a new appreciation for this unique slice of America. Put down your iPod and pull out your banjo; it's time for a rollicking good ride into the North Carolina backwoods with former city slicker turned storyteller, Leslie Brunetsky, as your guide. Her tales of transition from city life to a log cabin in the heart of Appalachia will make you grin from ear to ear. If you've ever thought about giving up your stressful city existence for the bucolic mountain life, you'll enjoy Leslie Brunetsky's stories in her delightful book, 'Real Country.' While you'll likely decide to keep your city digs after reading about her trials and tribulations, you just might wind up with the urge to whittle on someone else's front porch for an afternoon. Wickedly funny, Brunetsky's 'Real Country' manages to strike a balance that also reveals her warm admiration and respect for her new Appalachian Mountain neighbors… (more)