We have also started ordering directly from Chelsea Green, a small publishing company that is one of the founding members of the Green Press Initiative. They print 95% of their books on recycled paper, with a minimum of 30% post-consumer waste and 100% whenever possible. Chelsea Green has operated with a “triple bottom line” over the 20 years that they have been in business, and has been the company to turn to for books on sustainable living. By ordering from them directly, they are making more money per book, and we are supporting a business with similar values.

One of my favorite books currently on the shelf is The Man Who Planted Trees by Jean Giono. The story is both well written and inspirational, with beautiful woodcuts as illustrations. I have used it with great success when teaching environmental education in the classroom, even younger children enjoy listening to the story over the course of several days.

I am excited to be able to bring you books on subjects like permaculture, backyard orchards and food fermentation. Space on the shelves is limited, so I will be rotating through titles (especially cookbooks). The next time you are at the Co-op, take a peek at the book section (next to the magazines). You might just find your new summer read, or inspiration to get rid of some lawn and plant a garden.