Jared Gulian

An Olive Grove at the Edge of the World : How Two American City Boys Built a New Life in Rural New Zealand

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Discover the hilarious and heart-warming tale of how two American city boys learn to become olive farmers in New Zealand.

For Jared Gulian, leaving the United States and moving to the capital of New Zealand was a big enough switch from the bright lights of big cities. So when his partner, CJ, decided they just had to buy a rundown olive grove out in the middle of nowhere, it was almost too much.

To get there they’d have to drive over a dangerous mountain road — and Jared was terrified of heights. And then they’d have to figure out what on earth you do with 500 olive trees, warring hens, an obese kunekune pig, cast sheep, marauding cattle, and your neighbors when they say ‘yiece’ but mean ‘yes.’

In this charming memoir, Jared describes the first four years of their new life in the country, its disasters and small triumphs, its surprises and pleasures. But most of all he describes the warmth of a local community that welcomed them, saved them from certain peril, taught them how to cook, how to care for animals, and how to understand and love the land.


Formerly published as ''Moon Over Martinborough'' in New Zealand, this is the new International Edition.

Paperback, 362 Pages, Orig. Published 2013, This Edition Publ. June 2018

Written by: Jared Gulian

Reviews: 

'One of the most delightful books I have read for some time. As I turn the final page, I feel like I am close friends with the author... Wonderfully written.'
-New Zealand Lifestyle Block magazine

'A heart-warming tale with many laughs and a few tears... written with wit and warmth.'
-Manawatu Standard

'Very funny and endearing... A comedy of small disasters and small triumphs, but also really beautifully written.'
-Tilly Lloyd, Unity Books

'A delightful journey of discovery.'
-The Dominion Post

'Food for the soul for anyone who wants to escape to a simple country life, away from the bright lights and big city stresses... You're quickly onside with Jared as you wish him to succeed with his gorgeously positive approach to challenges.
-Booksellers New Zealand

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