11 April 2006
So, I don't usually talk about what I do at work, and I really don't talk about books before contracts have been signed. But I'm making an exception this time, because I'm so very excited that our offer has been accepted for this book. I first heard about Living the Good Life when Claire posted about it, and I immediately contacted the Australian publishers, who sent me a copy for consideration. Needless to say, I loved it, and we will be publishing it in the UK in January. Huzzah.
There was originally some concern that a book about sustainability in a climate which is so different from the UK wouldn't work here. Well, I guess we'll see, but I don't really have any doubts. After all, it's not a how-to guide; it's a diary which is filled with interesting (and scary) facts. It's really got me thinking about things differently, and that's exactly what it should do.
Anyway, besides the excitement about the book, I'm also thrilled to say that I've ordered a small mixed box from Abel&Cole. I've been intrigued by the idea of organic boxes for a while -- locally grown organic fruit and veg, delivered right to your doorstep, its contents varying depending on the season. I had just figured that a person had to live in the country to get one, though, until I did some looking around today. Delivery for this area is Monday, so I'll just have to sit tight until then. . . and look for tasty aubergine recipes. Can you fry it?
I'm so glad things worked out with the book. I think there are many people who live in the city that want to live in a simple, organic way. I get those organic produce boxes delivered once a week, and it's really great. It's a nice way to try fruits and vegetables you may not typically eat, and try new recipes. Plus, of course, the added benefit of having organic produce delivered right to your door!
posted by mary at April 11, 2006 09:17 PM
I'm less excited about organic fruit and veg (assuming I'm allowed near it) but maybe it's more fun than it sounds. Maybe the organic stuff tastes like donuts or something.
Ooh, and Happy Birthday Kris (Anna's mom/mum) x x
posted by Rob at April 11, 2006 11:10 PM
See, in Australia we haven't quite caught onto the whole organic wave that has swept across the UK. I loved the organic boxes delivered weekly with changing produce, and always wanted to go with the ones where you had your own patch, and they cultivated it for you. Your range of produce to choose from this way far excels what is available in Australia - but partly that's because our base produce is so much better quality. Friends in the Uk have ecently bought sections of a cow - all cut up and prepared as sausages, or steaks or however you dictate them be prepared and I think that's a great idea. And don't get me started on the free range organic turkey farms at christmas...The book will be a success in the UK because the english are great at turning ideas into small business opportunities and getting out there and marketing it.
posted by Alison at April 12, 2006 12:14 AM
Wow that is such great news! I adore the book too - I read it and spoke about it on my "blog":http://shinyruby.blogspot.com/2006_02_01_shinyruby_archive.html too!
I think it will translate really well as it's also about a family's efforts at living a unique lifestyle and about simple changes that everyone can make at home. I'm so excited for you and this project! :)
posted by shinyruby at April 12, 2006 12:37 AM
Hello,
I've just stumbled across your blog & heavenly mice photos - wonderful! I'll have to take a little wander around...
take care, gracia
posted by gracia at April 12, 2006 03:45 AM
aubergines - eggplants - are great breaded, fried in oil, and popped in the oven with a light topping of tomato sauce for 45 min or so. sprinkle with some cheese or garnish with pesto - that's our version of eggplant round here!
posted by at April 12, 2006 05:35 AM
I've got Living the Good Life, and it's great! I actually read it in one sitting, 'twas that good. Another favourite of mine along the same lines (but more factually informative) is A Good Life by Leo Hickman, which is available from Guardian Books. He also does columns for them occasionally - go on, go check them out!
posted by Leisl at April 12, 2006 10:26 AM
Abel and Cole are fabby! Love and adore them. The produce is so much tastier that we hardly used to do anything to them.
We will be having them again in the Summer for their salad and fruit bags.
posted by Gemma at April 12, 2006 01:54 PM
Yey Anna, everyone is so excited about you publishing the book, I'm lad you blogged about it. I'll put a link to this on mine for you. Am I allowed to mention the 'other' book we talked about or is it to be saved for later?
And super yey to you getting an Organic box, bet you can't awit till monday. I keep wavering about getting one but I so much love the walk to the farm that I never get round to it although I think the boxes get priority on the quality of items and the shop keeps the excess.
Hey Rob, some box schemes will also put Green & Black's chocolate into the box if you ask! Hope you enjoyed that slice of posh cake :0)
posted by cally at April 12, 2006 07:54 PM
I call aubergine eggplant, also, and also-also I call it delicious! We like to crank the oven up to 450 or 500 F (about 250 C), slice it about 1 cm thick, brush it with oil, and roast it directly on the racks, then eat it dipped in ginger-miso sauce or peanut sauce. OR roast some red bell peppers at the same time and then pull the roasted fleshy parts out of the skin & put them all in the blender together with a little lemon juice & salt - yum!
posted by Amber at April 12, 2006 09:35 PM
I am loving this book! I am nearly finished with it but have been trully inspired to change some ways in our family life. Great work for bringing it to the UK.
posted by shannon at April 13, 2006 03:13 AM
Hi there! I just popped over here by way of Alicia's blog. What a gorgeous site you have here, all of your little projects and photo's are so soothing and inspiring :)
posted by Lindsey (Yankee Girl Designs) at April 14, 2006 05:24 PM