Living the Good Life: How to Live Sanely and Simply in a Troubled World [B2093]

1983 PB reprint of the 1954 original classic, with just minor wear. Living the Good Life, like Walden Pond, is deeply rooted in an enduring American tradition of dissent from the majority and respect for the land.

Excerpted from the author's preface: "This is a book about a twentieth century pioneering venture in a New England community. Most of the subject matter is derived from twenty years of living in the backwoods of Vermont. The book aims to present a technical, economic, sociological and psychological report on what we tried to do, how we did it, and how well or ill we succeeded in achieving our purposes. When we moved to Vermont [in 1932] we left a society gripped by depression and unemployment, falling a prey to fascism, and on the verge of another world-wide military free-for-all; and entered a pre-industrial, rural community. The society from which we moved had rejected in practice and in principle our pacifism, our vegetarianism, and our collectivism. THIS is a book about a twentieth century pioneering venture in a New England community. Most of the subject matter is de-rived from twenty years of living in the backwoods of Vermont. The book aims to present a technical, economic, sociological and psychological report on what we tried to do, how we did it, and how well or ill we succeeded in achieving our purposes. or much longer. We have not solved the problem of living. Far from it. But our experience convinces us that no family group possessing a normal share of vigor, energy, purpose, imagination and determination need continue to wear the yoke of a competitive, acquisitive, predatory culture. Unless vigilante mobs or the police interfere, the family can live with nature, make themselves a living that will preserve and enhance their efficiency, and give them leisure in which they can do their bit to make the world a better place."

From recent-ish Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "This book couldn't have come to me at a better time - as we find ourselves on the eve of societal apocalypse, and slowly watch our morals and world figuratively and literally burn."; "Has many handy tips and philosophical ideas that are applicable to those who wish to return to natural living. I tried for many years to head in their direction but did not have the gumption these two did. Very good tips."; "I read this book when I was new to the homesteading movement. It has inspired me to keep a balance between work, life and health. The connections with Helen Nearing's relationship with Kristnamurti and the connection to other progressive philosophies at the time is fascinating. Highly recommend this book to all - while the Nearings only showed the positive perspective on their lifestyle, it is informative for those of us trying to find our place in the world."; "Interesting read for seeing how this couple lived. I enjoyed the commentary on the current events at that time."; "I enjoyed learning how the Nearings managed making their life removed from modernity, and how using local resources and trading labor let them accomplish their goals. It is sad that this book isn't easier to find..."