The Books that Changed Our Lives

The Unsettling of America: Culture & Agriculture by Wendell Berry

The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan

First, a confession: I haven't read Mr. Pollan's book. I imagine I'll read it eventually, but there are only so many pages a working mother of two can get through.

I did just finish the Wendell Berry book. Josh urged me to read it now that he's become a great believer in the small family farm, including convincing me it should be our family goal. I have no problem with the small family farm; perhaps because it's already in my genes, but I agreed to read the book because he was so excited about it. I found it a convincing argument against commercial agriculture at the expense of the small farmer. I can understand how Josh feels because having read it, I'm now anxious to begin our little family organic farming experience, complete with draft animals. (The desire for draft animals may die down, though Josh and I have discussed keeping a horse once we're established, for riding and other fun.)

I'm not going to write much here simply because I haven't the time, but if you're interested in the Papsdorf family dream, these books will give you an idea where we're headed.