In the ’60s it was called the "back to the land" movement, and in Helen and Scott Nearings’ day, it was "living the good life." Whatever the term, North Americans have always yearned for a simpler way. But how do you accomplish that today? Blending inspiration with practical how-to’s, Rural Renaissance captures the American dream of country living for contemporary times. Journey with the authors and experience their lessons, laughter and love for the land as they trade the urban concrete maze for a five-acre organic farm and bed and breakfast in southwestern Wisconsin. Rural living today is a lot more than farming. It’s about a creative, nature-based and more self-sufficient lifestyle that combines a love of squash, solar energy, skinny-dipping and serendipity . . . The many topics explored in Rural Renaissance include: "right livelihood" and the good life organic gardening and permaculture renewable energy and energy conservation wholesome organic food, safe water and a natural home simplicity, frugality and freedom green design and recycled materials community, friends and raising a family independence and interdependence wildlife conservation and land stewardship. An authentic tale of a couple whose pioneering spirit and connection to the land reaches out to both the local and global community to make their dream come true, Rural Renaissance will appeal to a wide range of Cultural Creatives, free agents, conservation entrepreneurs and both arm-chair and real-life homesteaders regardless of where they live. Lisa Kivirist and John Ivanko are innkeepers, organic growers, copartners in a marketing consulting company, and have previously published books. John is also a photographer. Former advertising agency fast-trackers, they are nationally recognized for their contemporary approach to homesteading, conservation and more sustainable living. They share their farm with their son, two llamas, and a flock of free-range chickens. Rural Renaissance also offers a foreword by Bill McKibben.

Mother Earth News Almanac is back! Grab this timeless reference for homesteaders, DIYers, and anyone looking to be more self-sufficient.

Describes the gifts that the earth gives to us and the gifts that we can give back to her.

With the help of her beloved grandmother, Tess learns some valuable lessons about plants and discover the wonders and joys of nature.

Intricate illustrations depict details of a modern quilt inspired by Sibylle von Olfers' classic storybook Mother Earth and Her Children This vibrant new translation, in turn inspired by the quilt, explores the changing of the seasons and delicately touches upon the circle of life. When Mother Earth calls her children to prepare for spring, the earthly children yawn and stretch before they busy themselves with beautification. They dust off the bumblebees, scrub the beetles, paint bright new coats on the ladybugs, and rouse the caterpillars from their cocoons. Bedecked with new blossoms, the children emerge from the earth and become spring flowers that frolic through the summer and autumn, until the leaves begin to fall and they return to Mother Earth, bringing the weary bugs and beetles back to their winter refuge.

Roll up your sleeves, warm up your oven, and find some new loaves to love—includes more than 150 tried-and-true bread recipes! From intense, chewy sourdough to light, airy focaccia, breads are usually at their best when they’re fresh from the oven—and the timeless allure of fresh bread has been part of Mother Earth News magazine since its first issue in 1970. In Bread, for the first time, the editors have collected their very best recipes and techniques. You’ll find all the classics, including rustic white, whole-wheat sandwich bread, and sourdough. There are plenty of quick-breads and page after page of country and holiday favorites, such as skillet cornbread, Irish soda bread, and fruit- and nut-filled harvest breads. Go beyond the traditional and try your hand at flatbreads, boiled breads, naan, bagels, pizza crust—even gluten-free breads. With more than 150 tried-and-true recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find something new to savor. Includes color photos