Product Description

Masanobu Fukuoka's book about growing food has been changing the lives of readers since it was first published in 1978. It is a call to arms, a manifesto, and a radical rethinking of the global systems we rely on to feed us all. It is also the memoir of a man whose spiritual beliefs underpin and inform every aspect of his innovative farming system. Equal parts farmer and philosopher, Fukuoka is recognized as one of the founding thinkers of the permaculture movement. Fukuoka perfected his so-called "do-nothing" technique, a way of farming that seeks to work with nature rather than make it over through increasingly elaborate-and often harmful -methods. His farm became a gathering place for people from all over the world who wished to adapt his ways to their own local cultures.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #12298 in Books
• Published on: 2009-08-25
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Review
The man is a legend among permaculture types, no-diggers, forest farmers and legions of other organic and sustainable devotees, not only because of his do-nothing approach but also because his message is one of deep reverence for our astonishing world. This reissue of his classic is welcome. --BBC Gardens Illustrated

About the Author
Masanobu Fukuoka (1914-2008) was born in a small farming village on the island of Shikoku in southern Japan. He developed what many consider to be a revolutionary method of sustainable agriculture called no-till cultivation. He received the Deshikottan and the Ramon Magsaysay awards in 1988, and the Earth Council Award in 1997.

Customer Reviews

Subtle agriculture for a world in crisis
Masanobu Fukuoka defies western or modern agricultural techniques going down to the basics of traditional japanese life. No chemicals and no digging the land for an abundant and long term harvest. Planting with the heart. Mindfulness...
The book and Masanobu himself impressed me and I find myself following his path like that of a guru.

Thought provoking environmental classic.
If you are interested in the food you eat, the way this food is produced, or the environment please read this book. The role of modern science and economics within these topics are discussed in this book using hard facts and philosophy, in an easy to read manner. It may change the way you think. Part of the list price goes to plant trees in India to compensate for the use of pulp in this book!

An amazing, thought-provoking book
I bought this book over 10 years ago and still re-read it from time to time. It follows the progress of a scientist who starts to question the validity of traditional science - due to the increasing speciality of scientists who cannot see the big picture outside of their field of expertise. Fukuoka explains his early failures with pruning experiments, but gradually things change and get better. He develops his 'natural farming' techniques that can rival 'traditional' methods in terms of yield, yet require less time and physical input to the land.

The books shows that a different way is possible - a gentler way. You learn so much about a man's struggle and his successes. Totally compelling and a classic.

Fukuoka died in 2008, aged 95 - his way of life enabled him to have a long and healthy time on earth - no bad thing!