Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Why You Should Read “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” by Barbara Kingsolver


Selecting a copy of “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” (AVM) from an airport bookstore was serendipity. I was on my way to Phoenix for a conference and was just browsing before my flight. I had no intention of buying a book – I had a new one from the library in my satchel – but AVM called out to me. It only took one page in before I knew it was the right selection.

The premise of the book is Barbara Kingsolver (author of the Poisonwood Bible among others) and her family move from Phoenix to Appalachia and begin a quest to eat locally for one year. What they purchase that is not locally grown is minimal – think coffee, etc. They will grow all their own produce and make bread from local grain, dairy from local cows, etc.

It took me but one chapter before I had a list of about 10 names of people who I would recommend read this book. Now I’m almost finished with it, I can't think of very many people who wouldn't benefit from reading it.

Whether you’re a self-proclaimed greenie like me, or you’re looking to make simple changes to feel better about yourself and the world in which we live, this book will apply to you.

Here are “Green Kristine’s Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Read AVM”:
1. Find out how you can ethically, morally consume meat without feeling guilty
2. Find out why America as a society is becoming obese
3. Learn about the benefits of growing your own food
4. Find out why desert living isn't all it's cracked out to be
5. Learn simple ways to support your local economy
6. Read about adventures in cheese-making, Amish farmers and more
7. Find out why you should never eat tomatoes in February (unless you live in the South)
8. Learn how to eat local year-round
9. Pick up some simple recipes for seasonal cooking
10. Gather a list of countless resources to help you make some small changes

Have you read AVM? What did you think about the book? Share your thoughts below!

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