About The Book
Testimonials/Reviews
This is a thought-provoking memoir. I loved pondering the choices made by the author's younger self, imagining the world he inhabited, and considering the intellectual ideas he raised. The exploration of the mother/son relationship, the wry humor, and the gorgeous voice have stayed with me.
More than a memoire, Morocco…is a coming-of-age story. A recounting of a boy growing up between two worlds—one shaped by American military life, the other by the rich traditions of Morocco. Farmer's writing is captivating, emotional and profoundly personal, striking the perfect balance between humor and nostalgia and engaging readers with vivid imagery and sharp insights.
This memoire captures the essence of a childhood filled with adventure, discovery, and the bittersweet transitions that come with growing up in a military family. Farmer’s writing is imbued with a sense of warmth and authenticity…painting a vivid picture of the time and places it covers. His reflections on the cultural and social norms of the era provide a valuable historical context that enriches the narrative.
Farmer’s writing flows eloquently and his descriptions pull the reader right into the scene…Farmer successfully blends his memories with the history of both [the United States and Morocco], bringing to life the beauty of Moroccan philosophies of family and community as opposed to the divisiveness being seen in so much of the world.
Morocco… is an enjoyable memoir that vividly captures the essence of a childhood spent amidst constant movement and discovery. Through many locations, from the quintessential 1950s town of Hutchinson, Kansas, to the exotic landscapes of mid-20th century Morocco, Farmer takes you there… Each chapter offers a glimpse into specific moments and places that shaped his early years: from everyday routines to profound rites of passage… The cultural contrasts between mid-century America and North Africa are integral to the story…Farmer’s reflections throughout the book blend humor, sorrow, and insight…It was a pleasure reading about Farmer's life and travels, witnessing his courage in sharing these experiences that span continents and decades. His willingness to share these stories with honesty and vulnerability offers a rare opportunity for readers to feel a sense of shared humanity across generations and geographies. Readers will undoubtedly be inspired by the life lived and the courage to share it.
Morocco... is a memoir that captures the essence of a transient childhood. The author, the child of a Navy officer, recounts a life filled with memories that are carefully detailed across diverse and fascinating chapters… What makes this story particularly captivating is its masterful balance of humor, introspection, and historical context…Farmer’s tone—warm, accessible, and refreshingly unpretentious—draws the reader into his world. Acting as both tour guide and historian, he offers a richly detailed account of his life, seamlessly intertwining personal stories with the historical and cultural contexts of the places and people he encountered…For anyone who has ever been shaped by the landscapes of their “youth”, this book is a deeply rewarding read.