From Powells.com
Staff Pick
Whether you aim to change a habit or completely transform your life, use this book as a blueprint for inspiration. More a lifestyle guide than self-help book, How to Be Alive presents research, personal stories, and exercises so you can live the happy life you were meant to. Recommended By Jen C., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
The author of
No Impact Man and founder of the No Impact Project returns with this trailblazing guide to living a meaningful and fulfilling life while also contributing to the wellbeing of our communities and the planet.
Deeply concerned about the environment, Colin Beavan went on a yearlong experiment to lead a zero net-impact existence in the middle of New York City. The project went far beyond the typical “reduce, reuse, recycle” credo and had a profound effect on Colin and those around him, in the process prompting what he came to refer to as a “lifestyle redesign.” His project, chronicled in a book, a documentary, and an ongoing lecture series, has provoked and inspired tens of thousands of people.
But most people cannot make the extreme changes that Colin explored. In this thoughtful, enlightening guide, Colin offers insight to help readers negotiate the maze of dilemmas and questions that confront us all when trying to do right by themselves and the planet. He shares his own experiences alongside those of the many people he has met along his journey who have discovered thousands of transformational lifestyle adjustments — small and large — that offer both security and meaning in a world plagued by ecological disaster, failing economies, war, and social injustice. In the process, he helps readers embark on the quest for a “good life” — both better for themselves and the world.
Review
“An encouraging approach to living a less materialistic, more fulfilling life.” Publishers Weekly
Review
“There is a movement afoot for a better life and Colin Beavan is its
prophet, with a new book as powerful as his already classic No Impact Man.” John de Graaf, coauthor of Affluenza
Review
“This is the book where self-help turns into helping the world — and then
turns back into helping yourself find a better life. Fascinating and
timely!” Bill McKibben, author of Eaarth: Making a Life on a Tough New Planet