Brea Getting Fit

I read alot (if you couldn’t already tell), and lately I’ve been reading more and more about health, nutrition and the vegan diet. I realize that there is much more to a vegan lifestyle than just diet, which is why I have read and re-read Vegan Freak: Being Vegan in a Non-Vegan World. While it’s an amazing book, and one that I feel is entirely worth reading, it covers the basics of veganism (including what to do with all of your old leather, wool and silk products). Knowing how much I love Vegan Freak: Being Vegan in a Non-Vegan World, I looked into other books along the same lines. That’s when I encountered The Ultimate Vegan Guide: Compassionate Living Without Sacrifice. Beyond it’s kick-toosh cover art, the book is a very enjoyable read. Erik Marcus (Vegan: The New Ethics of Eating, Meat Market: Animals, Ethics, and Money) touches briefly on all topics vegan, from what to eat, to how to make the change to activism. I really liked that each chapter is short, sweet and to the point. He also had some great pointers for eating out, shopping and answering questions. I didn’t think that this book goes into nearly as much depth as Vegan Freak: Being Vegan in a Non-Vegan World.  Actually, I think that Vegan Freak and Vegan Guide complement each other quite well. I can honestly say that I will go back and flip through The Ultimate Vegan Guide: Compassionate Living Without Sacrifice for references on activism and diet. Erik does a wonderful job covering all three topics.

As always, I’m spurred to do my own research, which has (not surprisingly) brought me to many of the same conclusions that Marcus comes to in his book. It’s a great read, and while educational, it’s fun (which I think is important) and quick. Each chapter is only about 5-10 pages, so you won’t be stuck on a topic for DAYS upon DAYS. Ultimate Vegan Guide is brief in its coverage of topics, but very well thought and presented. Overall, it’s a good place to start on your (or my) vegan journey.