THE VOLUNTEERS Book Review

By redandbluedave on September 16, 2024

Info

Written By: Carol Donaldson.

Published By: Summersdale.

Thanks to the publisher for sending me a physical copy of the book for the purpose of this review, also thanks to Random Things Blog Tour for adding me to the tour.

Overview

When Carol's world suddenly unravels, leaving her single and jobless, she stumbles upon an unexpected opportunity: leading a ragtag team of countryside conservation volunteers. At first glance, the prospect of nurturing Britain's diverse wildlife in the great outdoors seems like a dream come true.

However, reality paints a different picture: her office is a ramshackle portacabin overrun with mice and plagued by leaky ceilings, and the volunteers are far from impressed with her lack of practical skills.

Despite this rocky beginning, Carol gradually earns the respect of her eclectic group of volunteers, forging a tight-knit community that will grow to become essential to each member.

This diverse group spans generations, from twenty-somethings to septuagenarians, with each of them looking to get something different out of volunteering, whether it's a sense of purpose, a fresh start in life or a tick on their community service form. They also bring their unique quirks and life experiences to the mix.

Volunteer days soon evolve into the highlight of Carol's week, as they bond over their love of nature, mental health battles, and the desire for companionship. As they work together outdoors, the team discover a simple yet powerful recipe for self-confidence, improved well- being and a newfound perspective on life's challenges.

This journey not only brings solace and new joys to Carol's weeks, but eventually it helps her move on with her life, too.

The Volunteers is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the redemptive force of the woods and wildlife. It underscores the universal need for belonging and illustrates how, even in the most unexpected places, we can find a community to call our own.

Overview taken from the official book press release.

Review

Sometimes it's good to put the handbrake on and slow it down a little and read something a bit more wholesome and inspirational, don't get me wrong I love thrillers but sometimes it's nice to shed some light on the darkness and The Volunteers is definitely that wholesome light we all need in the world right now.

The book centres around Carol as she embarks on a new path on her life's journey, after she is made redundant from her job and her relationship falling apart plans of running a Wildlife Tour business falling by the wayside thanks to the banking crisis a new opportunity comes around that could well be the calling that Carol has been waiting for leading a team of conservation volunteers allowing her to share her passion and see the growth of other people.

Having a group of people of all backgrounds and all ages is an inspiration for Carol as she embarks on this new journey in her life as the group build a strong bond that helps them all but also helps Carol move on with her life.

I absolutely enjoyed reading this book the good feeling energy is on every page as the story of the unlikely close knit group fills you with a good feeling and an inspiring feeling. It not only inspires you on life but also makes you want to get your hands dirty yourself and get involved (well it's definitely inspired me) I enjoyed Carol's writing style you can just tell it comes directly from the heart as the book feels genuine and nothing is forced, Carol is definitely one of the community champions that need the highlighting they deserve for all the fantastic work they do.

Summary

Time now then for me to put my thoughts together into a summary, overall I really enjoyed the book it's completely different from my usual read but in a completely good way it's opened my eyes to what's out there and what people do as a group to build that support we all need throughout our lives. Put the kettle on make a brew settle down and dive into this book you definitely won't regret it.

Verdict-Out of 5 ⭐

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

EXCELLENT

I give The Volunteers an excellent full marks score of 5 ⭐ an incredible account of an incredible personal journey the shows the support of others around you is definitely the best support.