I was really excited when just days before my Christmas holiday I was able to get my hands on a copy of Sleeping Naked is Green: How an Eco-Cynic Unplugged Her Fridge, Sold Her Car, and Found Love in 366 Days by Vanessa Farquharson. I first heard about Vanessa through her blog Green as a Thistle (I’ve mentioned it previously), which has since gone off the air but you can still read the archives online.
What a great read! Especially during a time of year that is often filled with consumption. I took it with me to my parent’s house for the holidays, and boy did it peak the interest of many of the people who saw it. A great way to start earth-minded discussions without being preachy or forcing the topic on someone that isn’t interested, I might have to start carting more eco-books around with me.
Last week when I saw that I was nearing the end of the book I felt a little sad, like a friend was moving away, because I knew that very soon I would no longer be reading about Vanessa’s quest. I am quite fond of her writing style, especially on such a hot topic – she’s a real person who’s struggling with keeping our planet healthy but also living a full life that includes travel and the occasional piece of beef. She’s not afraid to admit her faults to the masses and laugh at herself along the way.
This book isn’t for hardcore earth protectors but more for the average person looking to reassess their living habits. If you’re looking for some simple tips about how to live greener by using recycled toilet paper and plugging your home electronics into power bars, then this book might be for you.
{image: wiley}
“Greening” my life is a goal for 2010. Thanks for the suggestion- I will have to pick this up!