Book Review - World Changing: A User's Guide for the 21st Century

Okay, I'll be honest, I haven't read the whole book yet. I just got it as a Christmas gift and it's over five hundred pages long. I need a little more time. Still, having spent several hours thumbing through it I can already say I'm willing to join the ranks of those singing the praises of World Changing: A User's Guide for the 21st Century (edited by Alex Steffen, published by Harry N. Abrams, Inc., New York). More than a book, it is a practical manifesto, a well-written and interesting read, a great reference, and an inspiration to anyone concerned about the consequences of human consumption.

World Changing is by far the most holistic and intelligent effort I've seen yet. There are great pieces on building green homes, living well in compact spaces, going off the grid, and conserving water. There is also abundant material on creating healthy homes, buying better food, and green consumerism. But World Changing does not stop there. Major sections - Stuff, Shelter, Cities, Community, Business, Politics, Planet - cover the full spectrum of issues, from personal consumption to global survival. Whatever your particular interest, this book will speak to you, and help you to appreciate the connectedness of different human activities all over the world. The material is presented in an accessible and engaging way that can be enjoyed by anyone.

Forward by Al Gore. Color illustrations throughout. Over five hundred pages, fully indexed. The energy consumed to produce each book was offset by the purchase of equivalent wind power credits (see www.renewablechoice.com). Printed on 100% post consumer waste paper and processed chlorine free. This entire work, from cover to cover, including the physical book itself, is a statement on a better future that is already in our reach, if we choose to act.

When I asked my wife to buy me this book for Christmas I wasn't sure what I would really get. World Changing has exceeded my expectations in every way. I already find myself reaching for it constantly. It is a thoroughly excellent work. Do yourself a favor - buy this book. It does not disappoint. And visit the popular WorldChanging blog on which it is based.

Only $24.75 right now on Amazon.com.

Image Credit - from the Amazon.com listing