Booklist
(1 April 2009)
How should we act in response to alarming environmental havoc? As with
every great endeavor, such as the abolition of slavery, what’s needed
is a declaration of values and intent. A manifesto. Sanders, a proven
voice of reason and clarity, offers exactly such a document in the hope
of shaping an effective green movement. But first he has some stories
to share, terms to define, and fresh perspectives to establish. Writing
lucidly and stirringly from his home base in Indiana, Sanders views preserving
wilderness as a Sabbath in space instead of in time. People who practice
an “ethic of restraint” are ark builders because their simpler
ways of living are “vessels” holding the wisdom we need to
survive the “rising flood” of environmental concerns. Sanders
writes crisply about what it really means to call a place home; reminds
us of our “common wealth,” the living world; and decries “endless
consumption.” Generosity of spirit and love of life underpin Sanders’
40-point blueprint for ecological health.
reviewed by Donna Seaman
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