Sarah van Gelder

Sustainable Happiness resonates with why I do what I do and how I am doing it! Each story is a seed of its own with lessons that will grow into a larger movement. I am re-energized with my purpose in co-creating equitable and sustainable ecosystems, urban agriculture, and continuing to do so in a way that acknowledges the voices that may not have a seat at the table. I have renewed hope for a positive shift in our world with the allies Yes! Magazine has gathered.

This short book is a collection of essays and articles, many of which have been used in other places, about the occupy wall street (in Zuccotti Park) and the 99% movement.
It is a motivating and interesting read, but has a US focus that makes it less relevant for UK readers. The history of how the occupation came about are interesting. Rebecca Solnit writes about the hope the occupy movement has created.
The presumption in the title that this changes every thing is one that can be argued with, show more has anything changed? The hope is that economic and environmental changes will spring from this movement. It reminded me that I am becoming an old and occasionally cynical environmentalist; but I really hope the book is right. show less

I bumped this up to a four star review because I think it covers some vitally important issues in our society. I applaud Ms. Van Gelder for addressing them and I hope that her book will raise awareness. Having said that, I was a little disappointed in the book. The stories were good, but I wish there had been some unique slant. It read more like a newspaper, which is fine, I just thought there would be something more to the book.

The co-founder of Yes! Magazine traveled the country in pickup truck and camper and reports in this book the stories of the grassroots leaders throughout the United States who are confronting racism, the climate crisis, and poverty.