The Unsettling of America by Wendell Berry

If you haven’t read anything by Wendell Berry yet, please do. In this book, he argues that farming is a cultural and spiritual discipline, while exploring how deeply estranged we as a nation have become from the land at the hands of agribusiness.

The Rural Life by Verlyn Klinkenborg

A lyrical, observational account of living within the seasons and rhythms of a farm. Klinkenborg has a way of writing about rural living that will take you there too.

Raw Milk Revolution by David E. Gumpert

Beginning in 2006, the agriculture departments of several large states-with backing from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-launched a major crackdown on small dairies producing raw milk. This book goes behind the scenes and chronicles some of the government’s bizarre and occasionally brutal intimation tactics toward farmers, and we see just how political the dairy industry has become.

The Omnivores Dilemma, Michael Pollan

This book is in-depth look at the commercial side of food from a journalist's point of view and shines a light on the problems with the modern food industry. It’s an entertaining and critical exploration of the food choices we make and the profound consequences those choices have on ourselves and the natural world.

Manifestos on the Future of Food and Seed, edited by Vandana Shiva

This collection of essays, edited by Vandana Shiva, a scholar, environmental activist, and food sovereignty advocate. The book lays out practical steps for working toward creating a food system that is more socially and ecologically sustainable.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver

Written with a whole lot of wit and curiosity, this book chronicles a year of back-to-the-land living in Appalachia, in which Barbara Kingsolver and her family attempt to eat exclusively what they grow themselves. Kingsolver explores far reaching issues with the broken system at home, in the garden and kitchen.

The Good Life: Helen and Scott Nearing Sixty Years of Self-Sufficient Living by Scott and Helen Nearing

This is an iconic “back to the land” book about the Nearings journey of ditching the city life and creating a life of self-sufficiency, social justice, and peace for themselves. It became a manifesto to generations of back-to-the-landers.

Full Moon Feast by Jessica Prentice

Written by an accomplished chef and food activist, Jessica Prentice, this book celebrates ethically grown foods and traditional cooking methods. The book follows the thirteen lunar cycles of an agrarian year, diving deeply into narratives of environmental and social justice through food.

Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon

A cookbook and deep dive into traditional food ways and how to create a healthier future through food.