No, I did not just misspell the name of our planet. It happens to be the name of 350.org  founder Bill McKibben’s latest book and the Library’s Reading Green book discussion choice this month. The full title of the book is Eaarth: Making a Life on a Tough New Planet.  “Eaarth” is the name McKibben has assigned both to his book and to the planet formerly known as Earth.

 

Today the Earth with one “a,” according to Mc­Kibben, no longer exists. It has been carbonized out of existence. Two-a Eaarth is now our home. However you feel about the whole global warming issue, McKibben’s book makes for a great discussion. At first glance the premise sounds a bit grim, but the book actually forges a more hopeful outlook towards sustainability. He offers suggestions for how we can adapt our habits and change our thinking by relying more on local economies. Buying products from local growers, farmers and food artisans keeps money in the community, supporting the local economy as a means towards sustaining the type of community that will be able to weather a changing planet. (excerpt here).

 

You do not have to read the book to join in the discussion, but you just might want to afterwards. Please join us this Thursday from 7-9 p.m in the Lindsey Room.