Books.org participates in affiliate programs including Bookshop.org and the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you.
Synopsis
Fiction and nonfiction writings gathered here reveal the resurgence of agrarian values and practices in rural areas, suburbs, and even cities. Many of the selections illustrate agrarianism in action, describing people restoring prairies, promoting community farms, and reshaping the built environment. Other selections critique contemporary American culture and its depletion of natural resources. Freyfogle teaches natural resources, property, and land use law at the University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign.
Annotation © Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
Library Journal
In response to an ever-increasing degradation of nature and a despoiling of the land, individuals nationwide have sought to find ways to restore the health of the land and maintain the crucial bonds between people and place. This excellent collection of fiction and nonfiction explores both the far-ranging problems arising from a capitalist industrial society and the restorative practices that "can stimulate hope for more joyful living, healthier families, and more contented, centered lives." In his introduction, editor Freyfogle (natural resources and property law, Univ. of Illinois) points out that the new agrarianism is not an escape to a pristine place but rather many local and varied attempts to achieve effective, enduring land use. All the selections are worthwhile, and several are outstanding. Farmer/poet Wendell Berry's essay focuses on the differences between a manipulative global economy and a caring local one, while Brian Donahue concludes that community ownership and management of much local land is essential to prevent its destruction. All authors agree that a radical change in social values is the key to bringing about a new understanding of our role on Earth. This thoughtful collection is highly recommended for all types of libraries. Ilse Heidmann, San Marcos, TX Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.