Profound statements and a simple philosophy gleaned from an eventful life are the basis for Bonnie Holland’s recently published memoirs, titled “Rural Home: Recollections and Reflections.”

Holland is a highly acclaimed botanical artist and author of several cookbooks. She works from her home on the fringes of Pike County in a place that was once called Rural Home.

“So that’s the origin of the title of my memoirs,” Holland said. “I have ‘journaled’ for more than 30 years and I wanted to put the things that I have written over much of my lifetime into a readable format to share with others.”

“Rural Home: Recollections and Reflections” was released on March 17, which just happened to be Holland’s birthday.

Being able to hold a book – a book of her own memoirs – in her hand on her birthday was a treasured gift for Holland and a feeling of such great joy.

“There are no word to express what I felt,” she said.

“Rural Home” covers the gamut of emotions, not only those of the author but also those of the reader.

“We all experience the same emotions so this book has something for everyone,” Holland said. “I’ve had lots of experiences – good, bad and indifferent. I’ve made many mistakes but I’ve learned from them all.

“I believe whatever happens in life happens for the best. Sometimes, it’s hard to recognize and understand that.

“But, I’ve had a very blessed life and a full life and also a very unusual life. I’ve loved the trip.”

Holland said she chose to write her story as a memoir because there are more stories to be told.

“I could write for the rest of my life and not tell it all,” she said, laughing.

“Rural Home” is a two-night read. And, anyone who reads Holland’s memoirs will get something from them.

She has plans to write more of her life’s story but, before she does that, she has to go about the business of a published author.

“‘Rural Home’ is in all major books stores across the country and the response has been “unbelievable,” Holland said.

“I’m getting a lot of calls that are interrupting my sleep and I love it,” she said, laughing.

An audio book is next for Holland.

“Usually a professional reader is used for audio books but my publisher, Trafford Publishing, has asked me to do the reading,” Holland said.

“They want to capture my Southern voice. Trafford will put in a bit of music and an introduction but I’ll do the reading.

“Trafford has also submitted ‘Rural Home’ to Hollywood in hopes that it will be picked up for serious television or perhaps a movie.”

No matter the future of “Rural Home: Recollections and Reflections,” whether it plays on the big screen or finds a place on the bedside table, Holland has found great joy and satisfaction in the writing of it.

If others find meaning for their lives in “Rural Home,” then it has all been more than worthwhile.

“Rural Home: Recollections and Reflections” by Bonnie Holland is available online at www.trafford.com/bookstore.