Rating: 
Summary: I would give it six stars.
Review: This is by far the most enjoyable book I've read in the Mitford series and the others were all five star in my opinion. Jan Karon has such a terrific sense of humor and this book shows it at its very best. I especially enjoyed getting to know Harley, Lace's friend from the Creek area. I almost fell off my chair laughing at some of his language, being from the South I have heard people speak just as he does but it was still hilarious to read it. There were so many other enjoyable storylines : the mayoral race between Esther Cunningham and Mack Stroupe, Andrew Gregory and his wonderful surprise, Buck Leeper's return to town and of course the ever-deepening relationship between Dooley and Fr.Tim. Overall a highly satisfying visit to the village of Mitford.
Rating:
Summary: Changes abound
Review: Two forces contend throughout "Out to Canaan," the fourth book in the Mitford series: tradition and change. Two mayoral candidates represent each side of the coin.Esther Cunningham, with thirty years in office, a passel of grandchildren, and a penchant for fast food, is facing a challenger in the latest race. Mack Stroupe, a hot dog vendor, promises progress and prosperity for the town if he is elected. It's a tough sell, but he wins many people over. Something about the whole situation, though, sounds an alarm for Father Tim, town counselor and conscience. Is the mayoral race somehow connected to the mysterious Miami Development, the company that wants to purchase Sadie Baxter's mansion and turn it into a spa? Changes of another sort are happening all over Mitford, and some are definitely for the better. For instance, Dooley Barlowe has developed into an ambitious young man, and is becoming more grounded, too, as Father Tim works to reunite his scattered family, one by one. Some changes are more chaotic, such as the opening of the Kavanaugh home to new residents, including Harley Welch and his surrogate daughter, Lacey Turner. And some changes, like most in life, are a mix of good and bad, such as Father Tim's impending retirement. I read this Mitford book with as much pleasure as the previous three, and look forward to more.
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