Book Reviews

Once the heart of the Ottoman empire, the bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East is a place like none other. "Eat the Grapes: Don't Fight theBattles" is a memoir from Craig R. Johnson as he reflects on his retirement spent in Turkey. Turkey is a place of duality, as society with two sides seems to co-exist on every level, making for a truly unique cultural experience. Well written and deftly crafted, Johnson's memoir is truly an adventure to read, making "Eat the Grapes" a solid addition to any personal memoir collection.

Midwest Book Review, Oregon, WI

I wish I had read Eat the Grapes before my family moved overseas several years ago.  Sprinkled with humor throughout, Johnson beautifully articulates the “irks, quirks, and perks” of living in a new culture.  Lots of people talk about a new adventure in a different part of the world but “Mr. Craig” actually stepped out and led his family on an unforgettable experience.  If you have already spent significant time in a different culture, then you will enjoy this book as you relate your own life to their two years in Turkey. And if you are planning a move overseas, then you should consider reading this book as preparation for what is in store.   
 
Andy L. Donahue, Singapore

I had a smile on my face when I finished this book. Eat the Grapes is an enjoyable look at one Minnesota family’s venture outside of their comfort zone and an insider’s view into living life outside one’s culture after so many years in America. I was amused by the interplay of wills and personalities as each of the family members dealt with changes and new experiences. This book is definitely a must read for any reluctant adventurer; it is inspiring to read about a man who, at the end of his career, takes his family on an exploration of unfamiliar regions, customs, and way of life. 

Patrick Green, Singapore (via Washington)

HAD to keep going once I got into it! Loved the descriptions and the interactions with the students.

Lois Fossen, Retired Teacher

Having read a number of first-person accounts, I found Craig Johnson's book to be most refreshing. His first-person account opens with an idea that becomes a reality for the next two years. It is refreshing to read about his decision-making process (jump in and go for it!) and the sense of humor he brings to his experience. A relaxing read for anyone who delights in discovering how this family comes to grips with that experience. There is nothing presumptuous about his writing, just good reading with some good laughs.

Gary Swedberg, Retired Teacher

It is certainly a book so well written in what seems to be an almost effortless prose, that I would think it would be enjoyed by many. I enjoyed not only the personal experience, but also learned a great deal about Turkey--the geography and the culture--such as in the Overtime section dealing with the Muslim religion.

Don Bihrle, Palm Springs, CA

The author presents the Turkish culture with eloquence and humor. Eat the Grapes is a winner.

Muril Pederson, Retired Teacher

I really enjoyed Eat the Grapes; it was a hard book to put down. Reading this book helped me gain a new appreciation for a country that I had visited years ago. Craig Johnson shared his experiences, both good and bad, and in particular, I learned about the enthusiastic people, unique customs, and rich history.

Andrea Michalski

As a fellow teacher, as well as someone who has become involved with a culture outside the U.S., I found Mr. Johnson's book fascinating.

Roger Lipelt

It was wonderful and totally absorbing. You have done a magnificent job of recreating those magical years. The quality of the book itself is outstanding. The photos were perfect, the conclusions, the writing style, and the detailed descriptions were excellent.

John Shaw, Retired Teacher in Turkey

Eat the Grapes will be my selection for the book club I belong to. It's very engaging and well written. I found myself speeding through a portion without attention to "the writing," only the story. Then, I'd go back to see "how he did that?" The story itself had such spirit and humor.

Margie Baker

This book could be about international teaching anywhere. If you are looking for quality and insightful experiences, Craig has captured the essence of the joys and challenges of teaching abroad in a storytelling fashion. So many of his experiences: from the haircut, to the touts, to the faculty rumors of the day have been shared by many of us living overseas. He paints an amusing and joyful story of survival as a teacher abroad. I can totally relate to the vignettes...actually, I laughed as they paralleled my experience. I could not put it down. Try it...you may laugh as much as I did!

Craig Paul, School Director
American International School, Cairo