A Walk in the Turkey Woods: Wandering Thoughts and Revelations by Mike Joyner is a charming and delightful read that blends whimsical prose and verse with evocative photographs. Divided into small, titled sections, Joyner’s writing provides a vivid sense of the turkey woods as a place of communion with oneself and a higher power rather than simply a hunting ground.

Through richly detailed descriptions of the scenery, rituals, and emotions of turkey hunting gatherings, Joyner creates a strong bond with the reader, conveying the depth of his personal connection to the woods and the gratitude he feels for the good health that allows him to enjoy them. Joyner’s intimate reflections on life, death, and the passage of time add a profound depth to the narrative, illuminating the precious moments and lessons learned throughout his experiences. Despite being dedicated to Joyner’s mother, who has passed away, the book is not solely about the death of a loved one. Rather, death serves as a thematic anchor, reminding Joyner to be grateful for the moments he has lived and inspiring him to maintain a journal of his thoughts and reflections to ensure that none are left unsaid.

A Walk in the Turkey Woods is a charming and intimate work of life-writing. Joyner’s verse is unpretentious yet touching, and the photographs, while ordinary, invest the narrative with a poignant sense of continuity and tradition. This book is a compelling entryway into Joyner’s thoughts and reflections on life and a reminder of the power of nature to inspire gratitude and reflection.

Pages: 104 | ASIN: B0BWYTSXR7