One Planet Life offers an ever-growing list of recommended reads on a variety of subjects curated especially for you.

All of our book lists are dedicated to helping you feel a deeper connection to the natural world around you, learn more about the wonders of our planet, and teach us how to be considerate stewards of the Earth. There are practical guides and books on sustainable living, futuristic fiction, deep dives on a variety of nature- and climate-related topics, inspirational books to support your health and wellness, and even books for young readers.

As the weather cools and the natural world is resplendent in autumnal colors, it’s the perfect time to cuddle up with a good book!  Books are a great way to learn something new, experience an unknown culture or world, gain a new perspective you hadn’t considered before, or find inspiration for your own life.

With the holidays right around the corner, retail marketing campaigns are in full swing, proclaiming the best sales of the year and the perfect gift for every person on your list. It’s easy to fall victim to holiday consumerism, but as we highlighted in our sustainable holiday gift guide, there are lots of planet-friendly ways to show your loved ones that you care. One of those ways is to give a good book!

Gently-used books have a zero-carbon impact due to being second-hand and can offer the giftee perspective and a window to a new world for less. Couple your book with locally-produced tea, cider, hot chocolate, sustainably sourced coffee, or a handmade or locally sourced blanket for a cozy, comforting gift that anyone would appreciate.

Here are a few of the books you can find on our Recommended Reads list.

Most are available via BetterWorldBooks, an eco-friendly company that has successfully repurposed or recycled over 450 million books, donated 35 million books to hundreds of non-profit organizations, and raised more than $34 million dollars for libraries and literacy programs.

The Little Book of Kindness by Bernadette Russell

Overwhelmed by the troubles of the world, Bernadette embarks on a year-long journey of kindness and finds her life inexplicably altered.

The Little Book of Kindness Book Cover
If the World Were a Village by David J. Smith

In this unique book, Smith distills all of the world’s populations into a 100-person village so readers can better understand the effect our society has on the world.

If the World Were a Village Book Cover
A Pocket Guide to Sustainable Food Shopping by Kate Bratskier

This positive and practical guide to food shopping is a great little book for anyone who wants to start making changes to help the planet.

A Pocket Guide to Sustainable Shopping Book Cover
The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh

This book evolved from letters that the author wrote to encourage others during a dark time in Vietnam and is a practical guide to the benefits of meditation and mindfulness.

The Miracle of Mindfulness Book Cover

Reading (and gifting) can be both thoughtful and planet-friendly.  Make the choice to read something new in a sustainable way today!