Going Out Green: One Man's Adventure Planning His Own Burial

by Bob Butz

Through memoir, boots on the ground research, conversations with his wife, and a serious degree of levity, Butz considers the options for his final act on Earth. In chapters like, "Wherein a memory of worms offers a glimpse into the future," and "Wherein the spirit of a natural burial is compromised by people looking to make a buck," Butz thinks about the unthinkable, and tells it like he finds it: . What happens to our body when we die? . Is six-feet-under enough? . What about grave robbers? Includes background on the growing movement toward natural burial preserves and cemeteries in the U.S. and Canada, as well as source information and a bibliography.

Genres: Nonfiction

162 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Bob Butz, a one-time contributing editor for Sports Afield, in addition to his books, has written articles for The New York Times, Outdoor Life, Field and Stream and National Wildlife, as well as a number of regional and national outdoor magazines. He is also a regular radio commentator on eco-political topics for Interlochen Public Radio. He has won a place on Michigan Notable Books list twice. Bob lives in Michigan with his wife and child. See him on Facebook.

Reviews

[Larry · Rating 5 out of 5]

great advice, " a bottle of wine, and write down what you would like done".

[Dii · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy read, a brief introduction to what a natural burial would entail. I recommend this as a starting point for anyone interested in a natural burial. There are numerous resources in the back of the book. It’s also a great read on how we talk about death and dying, and how our last act on Earth should demand more honest conversations and careful planning.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, Bob Butz offers a witty & detailed account of his adventure into the current trend of green burials. As Butz weighs in on the emotional & biodegradable benefits of being buried in a blanket, shroud, or hand-made coffin crafted from locally grown timber, 'Going Out Green' will also instruct the reader how they might one day return naturally to the earth.

[Vallerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, witty, and informative. I learned a lot and reading this 100 years in the future will be interesting. If you are interested in green burials and want to learn more, read this.

[Alana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Butz began his query and set a deadline and his adventure led him to great personal discoveries.