I have a recommendation for another book we could read as a class! It's called "Folks, this ain't normal" by Joel Salatin. The book is based mostly on his own personal experiences as a sustainable farmer and he discusses how far removed we are from the simple joys of life. Mr. Salatin seems like a vision of the past when it comes to farming, but upon closer look it is clear how modern and practical his methods of sustainable farming are. This book, like many environmentally based books, is a call to action that is practical and ingenious. Beyond all of that, he writes in a familiar tone and, from what I read, could easily be a farmer in the middle Tennessee area! (It might just be me, though, as I'm from small town full of farmers and agrarians.) This is the kind of environmentally and experimentally based book that any reader could really absorb, it feels almost as if you're having a conversation with the author! (Again, my opinion)
-Jilli


Below is the Goodreads review of "Folks, this ain't normal"

From farmer Joel Salatin's point of view, life in the 21st century just ain't normal. In FOLKS, THIS AIN'T NORMAL, he discusses how far removed we are from the simple, sustainable joy that comes from living close to the land and the people we love. Salatin has many thoughts on what normal is and shares practical and philosophical ideas for changing our lives in small ways that have big impact.

Salatin, hailed by the New York Times as "Virginia's most multifaceted agrarian since Thomas Jefferson [and] the high priest of the pasture" and profiled in the Academy Award nominated documentary Food, Inc. and the bestselling bookThe Omnivore's Dilemma, understands what food should be: Wholesome, seasonal, raised naturally, procured locally, prepared lovingly, and eaten with a profound reverence for the circle of life. And his message doesn't stop there. From child-rearing, to creating quality family time, to respecting the environment, Salatin writes with a wicked sense of humor and true storyteller's knack for the revealing anecdote. 

Salatin's crucial message and distinctive voice--practical, provocative, scientific, and down-home philosophical in equal measure--make FOLKS, THIS AIN'T NORMAL a must-read book.