I recently had the pleasure of obtaining a review copy of National Geographic Green Guide Families. I've heard good things about this book and looked forward to reading it.
First, a few words on the environment (and on my high horse). I come from the school of thought that you can't just be overtly wasteful, package chips in little snack-pack sizes, then throw those into a big box and wrap plastic around that and pretend like your convenience in that moment is more important than the future world we leave to our human race. You can't throw a bunch of chemicals on the soil, grow food through that soil and then say, "Sure, it's perfectly healthy." I don't care how many lobbyists purchase our Congress men and women, it's just not true.
And that's common sense. People who act otherwise, basically don't think. Unfortunately, that's not just their problem. Which is why I feel justified being on my high horse. And now I will get off…and get to this book review!
The book is made up of ten chapters, each a separate section containing important information for your family's health: home, raising healthy eaters, food, practical tips to keep your family healthy, raising environmentally-aware children, better choices for baby, toys and activities, healthy schools, holidays and parties, and family vacations.
I expected good information from this book, but was more than impressed. For example, I thought "The Home Front" chapter would include recipes for do-it-yourself cleaners. It did include this information, but it was only a brief few pages. Instead the chapter focused on the meatier, important information. Information that's harder to come by in a Google-search. Topics covered include ridding your home of radon and asbestos, why you shouldn't use pesticides to kill insects in your house, and the alternative options you can utilize. Learn to translate ingredients on products used in your household, and get information on room filters.
And if you're worried about your budget, throughout the book there are budget-saving tips, called out in "green on a shoestring."
This depth and breadth of information covered in this book make it a truly valuable resource. If you're thinking of going green, or just looking for that one go-to resource, this is the book for you. It's smart, easy to read, and filled with valuable information.
