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Friday, September 7, 2012

Preachin' to the Choir - Why it's good for your soul.

I ran across a glowing tribute to Joel Salatin's book, "Folks, this ain't normal" on a blog (and darned if I can  find it now - pipe up if it was you!) and thought that it was perfect timing for me to read something that spoke my language.  99% of the political speeches broadcast over the airwaves sure don't.  Many family members and some friends think I'm nuts to live like I do - and do the things that I do.  And since I've been feeling a little like the can that's kicked down the road lately (do kids kick cans anymore?), reading this book has been a tonic.

One of the (many) things I like and admire about Joel Salatin is his belief that it is a good thing to read opinions that are contrary to one's own.  I cannot agree more (although, I do draw the line at Rush Limbaugh).  And, while I don't agree with everything Joel Salatin does, I do agree with almost all of what he believes.  I can't recommend this book highly enough.  It's an eye-opener for those who don't fully grasp the true meaning of being environmentally 'friendly'.  And, in a way, it's a startling presentation of how far away we are from being sustainable, safe, and normal.

On the dust jacket, the New York Times (a paper I no longer read - it's gone off the deep end and the typos are atrocious) touts Joel Salatin as "The High Priest of the Pasture."  After shouting "Hallelujah!!!" after each chapter, I couldn't agree more.

11 comments:

SweetLand Farm said...

I've never read that book of his, but have read many others he has written, and love them all. I've seen him speak a few times as well. I agree with how he farms and have learned lots from him. His type of farming is what we strive for here!!!

Susan said...

SLF - Then you will LOVE this book (keep your eyes peeled for the BGA...)

Sue said...

It's on my winter reading list at the library. Looking forward to those cold, blustery days curled up on the couch with a good read.

Susan said...

Sue - I always envision that, but it never comes true! I am constantly busy. I need to slow down and smell the books.

Mama Pea said...

Nothing perks me up more when I'm worn down to a nubbity-nub and feeling sorry for myself because I think I work soooo hard (I don't really) and don't have enough "me" time than reading something that supports all we try to do here. We need that so much especially after we have an encounter where someone either intimates or says right out loud that we're crazier than bed bugs for living the way we do. So, I say hooray for Joe S. and good for you for putting the word about this book out there!

Carolyn said...

Guess this will be number two on "Susan's Suggested Reading". Guess I'm off to paperback swap to see if it's on there!

Susan said...

Mama Pea - So true. It really gives you a boost when you realize that what you are doing DOES matter. There IS a reason for it - you're not just channeling an 1800's prairie housewife. I like his writing style - he comes up with some zingers!

Susan said...

CR - I think that this is my favorite of his books (so far). The book I have is hardback - it may not be out in paperback yet. But, never fear - the BGA is coming soon...

Tami said...

I need to get this ordered at the libary. I've heard more than one person says that it's a great read. Thanks for the reminder!

Candy C. said...

"But, never fear - the BGA is coming soon..."
Hint, hint...I can hardly wait!! :)
Mr. Salatin is truly an inspiration and a voice of reason in this crazy society where most people no longer know where their food comes from!

Erin said...

Love Joel Salatin! We are lucky enough that we can visit his farm and get Polyface eggs here since we live fairly close, nice place for a day trip!