Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life

Good Green Information

While Gorgeously Green contained plenty of useful information, I didn't give it five stars for a couple reasons. I found several aspects of the book irritating: the constant references to 'feeling great about yourself for being green', Sophie Uliano calling herself and other women 'girls', and the maintenance plan and certification and the end of the book. More significantly, the book on greening one's home lacked information. Fortunately, there are other books that deal with eco-friendly homes and I mention one later in review. However, good information wins in the end and I recommend the book. In the introduction, Uliano writes: 'Many of us think the whole green way of life will be tedious, time-consuming, and even boring. Wrong! I have found out that caring about the planet doesn't have to be granola/hippie stuff. On the contrary, it's the most exciting, colorful way in which we could possibly live. After all, green is the new black, and we're going to be wearing this shade for a long time. Going green is not a fad with temperatures and pollution levels on the rise, it is becoming a way of life.' There are 8 steps to becoming Gorgeously Green: 1: Becoming aware of what it means to be green. Chapter includes a 'Gorgeously Green Lifestyle Checklist.' 2: Green Goddess: Covers what should be used and avoided in body care products and makeup. 3: Your Green Temple: Not really a chapter on being green, but an exercise routine that also includes daily mediation. 4: Soulful Shopping: Uliano writes: 'When I go shopping, I pick up a new suacepan or a pretty sheet set and take a few seconds to ask myself if we can make do without it. 9 out of 10 times the item is put back on the shelf.' She suggests you do the same with a 'Can I live without it?' exercise. Good idea! Also included in the chapter is a discussion of sweatshops, fair trade and places to find organic clothing. 5: Your Palace: Creating the home you desire. Discussion of non-toxic cleaning products, the basics of conservation (turn down thermostat, CFL's), and recycling garbage how-tos. This chapter does not include advice on renovation or decoration for the home, except to say avoid furniture that is marked stain resistant and avoid all products with PVC. A terrific book that does include green information for the home and how to make it beautiful is the award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet. 6: Every Last Bite Covers organic and local food, what foods to eat and to avoid. There are also nice-looking healthy recipes. 7: Out and About Having Fun Smart transportation, using your car wisely. Eco-friendly entertainment. 8: Go Super Green Conclusion and 'Gorgeous Green Checklist' again, presumably to check your progress. Overall, a good green reference book.

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.

CHANGE MY LIFE? YES!

THIS BOOK IS ONE OF THE BEST I HAVE EVER READ IT MADE ME FEEL BAD ABOUT THE WAY I HAVE TREATED THE EARTH IN THE PAST BUT I NOW FEEL INSPIRED TO CHANGE THE WORLD. I HAVE STARTED DOING ABOUT 75% OF THE THINGS IN THE BOOK AND I FEEL BETTER ABOUT MY IMPRINT ON THIS EARTH NOW. I WILL CHANGE THE WORLD EVEN IF ITS ONLY MY LIL PART

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

okay but not great

There were some good tips in the book but I found it to be more like......don't do this, don't drink this, don't put this on your face, don't don't don't.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

LOVE this series!

Ms. Uliano is fantastic. I use this book like a bible. I love how she brings the "living green" down to a common person's level of doing things and has such a broad spectrum of information from haircare to grocery shopping and more. I have bought this book for every girlfriend of mine for gifts and each has enjoyed it in their own way, regardless of their current level of conciousness about the environment. Looking forward to seeing what else comes out from her in the future!

The Best "Green" Book...so far!

This book is the "Green" Bible! It has all of the information you need to make significant, healthy changes in your life for your family and your home. The step-by-step approach helps to break-down a lot of information. The author doesn't pressure you to take it all on at once - small steps are fine. I love how the author provides specific name brands of products and Web sites for products and information. I especially liked the sections on cleaning supplies and cosmetics. In addition to being a fabulous reference guide, Gorgeously Green is a great gift! All of my friends have loved receiving this easy-to-read, practical book that has helped them make smart choices for their family.

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