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Mothering Earth: The Busy Family's Guide to Saving the Planet
This Earth—and money—saving guide to sustainable living empowers families everywhere to fight climate change by making practical lifestyle changes—at home at their own pace.
Expert author Julia Rockwell provides a road map to simplify and streamline our lives in a way that benefits overall well-being and the health of the planet—all without sacrificing comforts or turning our lives upside down. And to do so you...
Written and designed to reach all families, this inspiring and useful book highlights “eco-action” solutions that support a climate-friendly lifestyle at your own pace. Some of the eco-actions topics covered
It shows us how caring for a healthy planet doesn’t just boost mental wellness, reduce stress, and heighten sense of community, but also saves time and money, too. Includes a comprehensive list of eco-insider resources, a 31-day Eco-Family Challenge, a guide to creating a personalized roadmap to resources in your area, and the book itself is printed on responsibly forested, FSC certified paper.
Realistic yet impactful, Mothering Earth gives readers a feasible guide for simple and meaningful change, while at the same time sparks calmness and connection. With the tools to create an effective and healthy eco-routine, readers take a holistic look at shifting habits and making them stick in this Earth-saving guidebook.
“We know women and girls will be most affected by climate change. Mothering Earth has us all thinking about how to take agency in our own lives while fighting for the systemic changes we need for a thriving planet.”
— Eve Rodsky , author of New York Times bestseller Fair Play and Find Your Unicorn Space
"Saving the planet is an all-hands-on-deck effort, and in this book, Julia gives strategies that can get your whole family (or just yourself whilst navigating family) on board with simple shifts that are economical, fun, and best of all, impactful. Every household needs to read this. Better yet, every human needs to read this."
— Ashlee Piper , Sustainability Expert and Author of Give A Sh* Do Good. Live Better. Save the Planet.
"This book is a powerful and practical guide for how we can individually make small shifts and daily choices to collectively create a more just, equitable world – and a more climate resilient future – for our children and for generations to come."
— Melinda Kramer , Co-Founder and Co-Director of Women’s Earth Alliance
"Conscious parenting is not an easy task, but Julia will show you how it’s not only possible - it's the foundation for a whole new kind of life. And one that you don’t want to miss out on."
— Anne Therese Gennari , author of The Climate Optimist Handbook
" Mothering Earth is the approachable, accessible guide I’ve needed to move from overwhelm to action. Julia skillfully outlines the small, simple changes my family can make to live more sustainably and create a stronger planet."
— Jill Koziol , Co-Founder & CEO, Motherly
"Julia has done incredibly thorough research coupled with her dedicated experience and testing in order to offer a wide host of solutions for every aspect of domestic life. This book will be an incredibly valuable resource for parents and non-parents alike..."
— Danielle Jezienicki , Director of Sustainability at Grove Collaborative
Expert author Julia Rockwell provides a road map to simplify and streamline our lives in a way that benefits overall well-being and the health of the planet—all without sacrificing comforts or turning our lives upside down. And to do so you...
Written and designed to reach all families, this inspiring and useful book highlights “eco-action” solutions that support a climate-friendly lifestyle at your own pace. Some of the eco-actions topics covered
It shows us how caring for a healthy planet doesn’t just boost mental wellness, reduce stress, and heighten sense of community, but also saves time and money, too. Includes a comprehensive list of eco-insider resources, a 31-day Eco-Family Challenge, a guide to creating a personalized roadmap to resources in your area, and the book itself is printed on responsibly forested, FSC certified paper.
Realistic yet impactful, Mothering Earth gives readers a feasible guide for simple and meaningful change, while at the same time sparks calmness and connection. With the tools to create an effective and healthy eco-routine, readers take a holistic look at shifting habits and making them stick in this Earth-saving guidebook.
“We know women and girls will be most affected by climate change. Mothering Earth has us all thinking about how to take agency in our own lives while fighting for the systemic changes we need for a thriving planet.”
— Eve Rodsky , author of New York Times bestseller Fair Play and Find Your Unicorn Space
"Saving the planet is an all-hands-on-deck effort, and in this book, Julia gives strategies that can get your whole family (or just yourself whilst navigating family) on board with simple shifts that are economical, fun, and best of all, impactful. Every household needs to read this. Better yet, every human needs to read this."
— Ashlee Piper , Sustainability Expert and Author of Give A Sh* Do Good. Live Better. Save the Planet.
"This book is a powerful and practical guide for how we can individually make small shifts and daily choices to collectively create a more just, equitable world – and a more climate resilient future – for our children and for generations to come."
— Melinda Kramer , Co-Founder and Co-Director of Women’s Earth Alliance
"Conscious parenting is not an easy task, but Julia will show you how it’s not only possible - it's the foundation for a whole new kind of life. And one that you don’t want to miss out on."
— Anne Therese Gennari , author of The Climate Optimist Handbook
" Mothering Earth is the approachable, accessible guide I’ve needed to move from overwhelm to action. Julia skillfully outlines the small, simple changes my family can make to live more sustainably and create a stronger planet."
— Jill Koziol , Co-Founder & CEO, Motherly
"Julia has done incredibly thorough research coupled with her dedicated experience and testing in order to offer a wide host of solutions for every aspect of domestic life. This book will be an incredibly valuable resource for parents and non-parents alike..."
— Danielle Jezienicki , Director of Sustainability at Grove Collaborative
- GenresNonfictionAdult
288 pages, Hardcover
Published October 10, 2023
4 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 16, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for the eGalley to review!
I loved this!! This is a well-planned, in-depth guide/workbook for helping the reader start living green and sustainably. Rockwell doesn't gloss over the fact that much of our environmental issues are caused by corporations, but still encourages the reader to help sway our consumerist society into forcing these corporations to do better--that system change and individual action are two sides of the same coin. Greenwashing is also explained (when a company tries to market themselves or their products as green but without actually doing anything sustainable) and Rockwell does well to help the reader understand what to look for and steer clear of. So many myths are busted in plain language and there is no shying away from what's going on.
And to say there is a wealth of information in this book is a gross understatement--I really mean it when I say it is an *in-depth* guide! There is advice for every aspect of a person's life, from yourself to your kids, the animals in your care, your whole community--even advice for having sustainable sex! It's incredibly well thought out. Aside from the workbook part of the book for making your own green plan, there are things like party planning ideas for kids' birthdays, recipes, brand suggestions, self-care practices, and a handy glossary of terms to keep yourself well-informed.
I think, however, my favorite part about this book is how kind it is. Rockwell is a bit informal and not at all coldly academic about the facts, which are well researched for this book. There's real compassion in this guide, from one human being to another. A "Zero-Guilt Tool Kit" is included to make sure the reader understands that they don't have to feel bad or guilty about this non-linear journey to sustainable living. It's okay to be imperfect and it's okay to focus on self-care to prevent burnout. This is made succinct by "The Eco-Actionist Manifesto" wherein ten standards are listed to strive for:
1. People are primary (prioritizing human rights and wellness, as well as supporting non-exploitative businesses and businesses run by marginalized people);
2. Prioritize the planet (considering environmental impact before making decisions);
3. Part with damaging patterns (recognizing and changing damaging lifestyle habits);
4. Progress over perfection (celebrate progress and recognize that stumbles are inevitable and inescapable);
5. Persistence is paramount;
6. Pace yourself (set realistic goals and only add more when you feel comfortable);
7. Patience (not just with yourself but with others on their own journeys to sustainable living--no judgement, only support for everyone's betterment);
8. Point the way (lead by example and hold higher-ups accountable);
9. Pour labels down the drain (not letting labels get in the way of making change as there are no established rules to living sustainably);
10. Participate with my strengths (focus on how you can contribute to change).
This is easily a recommendation for the bookshelf. Truly indispensable.
I loved this!! This is a well-planned, in-depth guide/workbook for helping the reader start living green and sustainably. Rockwell doesn't gloss over the fact that much of our environmental issues are caused by corporations, but still encourages the reader to help sway our consumerist society into forcing these corporations to do better--that system change and individual action are two sides of the same coin. Greenwashing is also explained (when a company tries to market themselves or their products as green but without actually doing anything sustainable) and Rockwell does well to help the reader understand what to look for and steer clear of. So many myths are busted in plain language and there is no shying away from what's going on.
And to say there is a wealth of information in this book is a gross understatement--I really mean it when I say it is an *in-depth* guide! There is advice for every aspect of a person's life, from yourself to your kids, the animals in your care, your whole community--even advice for having sustainable sex! It's incredibly well thought out. Aside from the workbook part of the book for making your own green plan, there are things like party planning ideas for kids' birthdays, recipes, brand suggestions, self-care practices, and a handy glossary of terms to keep yourself well-informed.
I think, however, my favorite part about this book is how kind it is. Rockwell is a bit informal and not at all coldly academic about the facts, which are well researched for this book. There's real compassion in this guide, from one human being to another. A "Zero-Guilt Tool Kit" is included to make sure the reader understands that they don't have to feel bad or guilty about this non-linear journey to sustainable living. It's okay to be imperfect and it's okay to focus on self-care to prevent burnout. This is made succinct by "The Eco-Actionist Manifesto" wherein ten standards are listed to strive for:
1. People are primary (prioritizing human rights and wellness, as well as supporting non-exploitative businesses and businesses run by marginalized people);
2. Prioritize the planet (considering environmental impact before making decisions);
3. Part with damaging patterns (recognizing and changing damaging lifestyle habits);
4. Progress over perfection (celebrate progress and recognize that stumbles are inevitable and inescapable);
5. Persistence is paramount;
6. Pace yourself (set realistic goals and only add more when you feel comfortable);
7. Patience (not just with yourself but with others on their own journeys to sustainable living--no judgement, only support for everyone's betterment);
8. Point the way (lead by example and hold higher-ups accountable);
9. Pour labels down the drain (not letting labels get in the way of making change as there are no established rules to living sustainably);
10. Participate with my strengths (focus on how you can contribute to change).
This is easily a recommendation for the bookshelf. Truly indispensable.
November 2, 2023
Staggering in the amount of detail and options that it provides for reducing our collective assault on Mother Earth. Most importantly was the practical admonition to start with small steps and gradually build up your personal environmental friendly arsenal. In the same philosophy "Little Bets" illuminates the "test the waters" approach utilized by Chris Rock in developing his routine and Hewlett Packard in the development of the HP-35, the first hand held pocket calculator.
As the retired Senior Policy Adviser on Climate Change for the U.S. Environmental Agency, San Francisco CA Region 9 Ofice, I would highly recommend this engaging masterpiece for not only families but all of us concerned with saving the planet.
As the retired Senior Policy Adviser on Climate Change for the U.S. Environmental Agency, San Francisco CA Region 9 Ofice, I would highly recommend this engaging masterpiece for not only families but all of us concerned with saving the planet.
October 10, 2023
An extremely interesting book that provides much more than advice, it teaches you just how to dispose of waste, recycle clothes or how to replace things that are neither reusable nor disposable. Of course the problem is that every time I read a book like this I also wonder when we will finally realize that we can't go on like this, pretending nothing is happening.....
Un libro estremamente interessante che fornisce molto di piú che consigli, ti insegna proprio come smaltire i rifiuti, reciclare i vestiti o come sostituire le cose che non sono né riutilizzabili né smaltibili. Certo il problema é che ogni volta che leggo un libro del genere mi chiedo anche quando ci renderemo finalmente conto che non possiamo andare avanti cosí, facendo finta di niente.....
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
Un libro estremamente interessante che fornisce molto di piú che consigli, ti insegna proprio come smaltire i rifiuti, reciclare i vestiti o come sostituire le cose che non sono né riutilizzabili né smaltibili. Certo il problema é che ogni volta che leggo un libro del genere mi chiedo anche quando ci renderemo finalmente conto che non possiamo andare avanti cosí, facendo finta di niente.....
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
June 19, 2023
First I have to say that I LOVE how the book puts that this is a resource on how to help and not THE way of doing things. I would love to get a physical copy of this at some point. I feel it is a great resource for families but also very useful for those who live alone. I found the tips useful and I loved how they incorporated about treating others well. It was so smart adding about connecting and interating with people in person as well. I love how many areas the tips and information gave and how it made it easy to read and follow. I plan on using some of the tips. This is a great book to get information from but also would be a great read for further tips and conversation. A good group read for those wanting to make a difference. I will be revisting this book.
October 2, 2023
I absolutely love this super inspiring and easy to follow guide to the zero-waste movement, paired with gripping quotes from climate activists. At first I took issue with Rockwell's statement "We know women and girls will be most affected by climate change" right at the outset, thinking it would be more accurate to say climate change will affect everybody, full stop. But her supporting arguments around gender inequality, the patriarchy, female leadership and empowerment are all brilliant and enlightening. I love all the myths she highlights and debunks, the emphasis she puts rightly on America causing most of Earth's damage, and the need to address systemic change and also the undeniable importance of taking individual action. There are so many great ideas for things we can all do, I made two lists - one of the things that our family already does that are good for the environment, and the other a list of great suggestions provided in this book to start integrating into our day-to-day!
February 12, 2024
I’ve read several zero waste books, and this one tops them all—by a lot. As much as I appreciate learning how one person reduced waste in their own life, their personal solutions are only as useful to me as their life is similar to mine. Not so with Julia Rockwell. She’s a researcher at heart, and in Mothering Earth she assembles a wide range of strategies that readers can choose from and adapt to their own situations. It’s about time!
My only quibble is with the publisher, for not allotting more space to this information-rich book. Rockwell’s carefully researched content feels at times quite densely packed within the constraints of the book’s design. I enjoy having the hardback book around to use as an almanac, dipping in and out depending on my questions at the moment.
Overall I’m grateful that Rockwell and her publisher are raising the standard for sustainability books. We absolutely need both research and the tools of service journalism to make sustainable choices at once more appealing and more accessible.
My only quibble is with the publisher, for not allotting more space to this information-rich book. Rockwell’s carefully researched content feels at times quite densely packed within the constraints of the book’s design. I enjoy having the hardback book around to use as an almanac, dipping in and out depending on my questions at the moment.
Overall I’m grateful that Rockwell and her publisher are raising the standard for sustainability books. We absolutely need both research and the tools of service journalism to make sustainable choices at once more appealing and more accessible.
October 11, 2023
I found this book very engaging, with a warm, friendly style. In it, Julia promotes environmental awareness and action without judgement and encourages readers to do as little or as much as they can, without worrying that they somehow aren’t measuring up or doing enough and provides lots of resources and ideas to get their journeys started and sustained.
Even as someone who considers himself knowledgeable about climate change issues, recycling, low- and zero-waste, energy conservation, etc., I found plenty of new information and helpful strategies, tips, tricks, and goals. I highly recommend this book for both the eco-curious and the seasoned eco warrior, and for both men and women. After all, although I acknowledge and appreciate women’s carrying most of the burden of caring for the planet, we men can and must, step up and do our part for the good of the planet, our communities, and our families.
Even as someone who considers himself knowledgeable about climate change issues, recycling, low- and zero-waste, energy conservation, etc., I found plenty of new information and helpful strategies, tips, tricks, and goals. I highly recommend this book for both the eco-curious and the seasoned eco warrior, and for both men and women. After all, although I acknowledge and appreciate women’s carrying most of the burden of caring for the planet, we men can and must, step up and do our part for the good of the planet, our communities, and our families.
September 11, 2023
Wonderful Advice!
This book is amazing for parents (but especially moms, as she points out, who do so much of the invisible labor, or Motherload.)
It’s practical, it’s non judgmental, non shaming, and it gives realistic tips for how to reduce carbon footprint without radically changing your life.
My only real criticism is that it still felt too consumer focused. I loved that the author highlighted buy nothing culture, but often times I read “this will cost more but-“. I struggle with that as someone who is an advocate for folks in poverty.
Still, I felt for the most part it was fair and balanced, and that it had real solutions to everyday problems. It also is exceptionally realistic about what one parent can do in a family.
Received an advanced reacher copy from NetGalley and am leaving a voluntary review (with no compensation).
This book is amazing for parents (but especially moms, as she points out, who do so much of the invisible labor, or Motherload.)
It’s practical, it’s non judgmental, non shaming, and it gives realistic tips for how to reduce carbon footprint without radically changing your life.
My only real criticism is that it still felt too consumer focused. I loved that the author highlighted buy nothing culture, but often times I read “this will cost more but-“. I struggle with that as someone who is an advocate for folks in poverty.
Still, I felt for the most part it was fair and balanced, and that it had real solutions to everyday problems. It also is exceptionally realistic about what one parent can do in a family.
Received an advanced reacher copy from NetGalley and am leaving a voluntary review (with no compensation).
October 12, 2023
The author’s story and background information are compelling, engaging, inclusive and non-judgmental. There’s a place in this eco journey for all readers to begin or continue their journeys however large or small their efforts. The arguments / rationale for action are clear and concise - bullet points and then more information as desired. This book would be a great gift for a baby or wedding shower, graduation, birthday or retirement. I see this book as a great multigenerational resource - for when you’ve run out of a product and want to find an eco- friendly one, when you’re downsizing and don’t know what to do with all of your stuff, when you or a friend or family member are ready to take the next step, and more. As a mother and a grandmother, I found the information and tips in this book useful and inspiring!
March 16, 2024
This is an incredibly useful and insightful book. As the father of two boys, this book helped me figure out how I can pursue a more sustainable life at home. It taught me very easy and effective ways to help reduce our waste and be more conscious about what we bring into the house and how we use it. Getting the boys involved has been part of the fun and they can easily partake and learn effective ways to grow up into responsible eco friendly adults. It is evident that the author put a lot of thought and care into this book. It reads easily, is very informative, and its fun! I think every parent should read this book to learn how to create a more sustainable life style and future for our kids!
October 12, 2023
Yes, You Can Teach Old Dod New Tricks
As a grandmother I want to do my part to create a healthier environment for my grandchildren and for future generations. In my 70s I have realized it’s never too late for me to make a difference. This is a thoughtful, no-guilt resource book about empowerment and hope for the future. It is a how-to book - how to make a difference. This book has given me new ways to change my daily habits and choices, and to simplify my life. It shows me how I can be an eco-minded grandmother. It’s exciting to have a new set of tools for this old gal, and to make a difference no matter how small my aging footprint has become.
As a grandmother I want to do my part to create a healthier environment for my grandchildren and for future generations. In my 70s I have realized it’s never too late for me to make a difference. This is a thoughtful, no-guilt resource book about empowerment and hope for the future. It is a how-to book - how to make a difference. This book has given me new ways to change my daily habits and choices, and to simplify my life. It shows me how I can be an eco-minded grandmother. It’s exciting to have a new set of tools for this old gal, and to make a difference no matter how small my aging footprint has become.
October 13, 2023
This guide on how to live more sustainably on the earth is important not only for families but for anyone who wants help changing their habits. Well-researched and comprehensive in scope, the author goes beyond platitudes, explaining issues in a clear and concise way. I came away with many ideas about simple changes I can make in the kitchen and around the house. It’s definitely a book to hold onto and refer back to over time, as there is so much there. I found the story of the author and how she changed the way that she and her family live to be very inspiring. This is a book I plan to give as a gift to new families and others.
October 13, 2023
An incredibly important book for our times. Julia breaks down all the ways we can help save our planet - from super easy changes to fully integrating sustainable practices into you and your family’s lives. So much of eco-literature these days can be too preachy or intimidating. “Mothering Earth” is a completely accessible resource for both the novice and the practicing. Thank you for writing this book!
June 30, 2023
I really am impressed by the huge amount of research and passion that went into this book. Very detailed and informative, definitely not light reading.
•Plastic
•Energy
•Food
•Repair/Reuse
•Community work
•And LOADS more!
This book is an in-depth guide for people who are serious about changing the way 🌿 🌎💚
*Temporary access to e-copy received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
•Plastic
•Energy
•Food
•Repair/Reuse
•Community work
•And LOADS more!
This book is an in-depth guide for people who are serious about changing the way 🌿 🌎💚
*Temporary access to e-copy received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2023
A very interesting and educational read. I’m not in the place to fully commit to all of the items in the book, but am going to start with baby steps. The notebook section of this book, is super helpful to get started. My favorite takeaway from the book was “Collect memories, not things.”
Thank you, NetGalley and Charlesbridge. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Charlesbridge. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 14, 2023
A largely inclusive book that is relevant to not just parents/children but to everyone. This book is filled with great concrete ways to “mother earth” and I loved how the author lays out this book. The title is a little misleading and could turn some people who aren’t so family oriented away, but everyone can get something out of, and should read, this book.
October 4, 2023
It took me a while to get into this book but I'm so glad that I persevered. It is probably the most sensible book I have read about caring for our planet (and ourselves) that I have read in a long time. You do not have to be perfect but it shows how to make small changes in attitude and how to build small changes into our everyday lifes. A very sensible readable book.
October 13, 2023
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A super book and guide for families and individuals wanting to be a part of self sufficiency and caring for our planet. Many ideas for eco-action starting from the smallest change in our lifestyles to responsible waste disposal, recycling, etc. Recommended reading.
A super book and guide for families and individuals wanting to be a part of self sufficiency and caring for our planet. Many ideas for eco-action starting from the smallest change in our lifestyles to responsible waste disposal, recycling, etc. Recommended reading.
October 10, 2023
An impeccably researched and helpful resource for anyone looking to lessen their impact on our planet. I love how author, Julia Rockwell, shares sensible and manageable changes in attitude and behavior that can amount to impactful change. Highly recommend!
December 7, 2024
Everyone needs a copy of this book. (It should be a staple in every household!) It's extremely well researched and offers simple, actionable ways to make a difference--while also making our lives easier (such a win-win!). I cannot recommend this book enough.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews