Through eloquent well-researched prose and a series of stunning photographs, Alex Stewart tells the story of present-day Bonavista Peninsula, a place both modern and historic, one of steady rock and capricious weather, of creative and entrepreneurial people and the various ways they thrive in this oceanside landscape. Rural Revival is a compelling work of joy and survival that is rooted in place and at the same time, universal. Emily Urquhart, author of The 21st century outport: Reimagining home in Newfoundland (Ph.D. dissertation) and The Age of Creativity, Beyond the Pale, and Ordinary Wonder Tales.

I would like to note your empathy and understanding for the entrepreneurs and people of rural Newfoundland. Often, people do not understand certain aspects of the way of life, and instead of asking to learn more, they simply make outlandish assumptions and comments. Your book showed how much time you spent learning and how diligent you were in asking the right questions to the right people; your anthropology instincts are superb! Madison Philpott, Plate Cove West (the author’s former student).Rural Revival is lovely—engaging from the outset. It’s really thoughtful throughout and its writing style really brings us into the “Bonavista World.” It’s a fascinating account of what is going on and the photos are a wonderful addition… I think it has an interesting lesson in ethnography and photo-ethnography and in its discussion of place and space. Sarah Jack, Distinguished Professor, Lancaster University.