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Ethan Smith has collected 30 essays from various activists and advocates around North America and compiled them in his self-published book SOFTLY ON THIS EARTH. Though the book deals extensively with animal rights on several levels, it also discusses other keystone issues affecting modern progressive movements. The essays range from lighthearted to serious; personal, professional, and powerful in perspective. Throughout it all, Ethan’s heartfelt narrative weaves the passages together. He exudes a breathless love of the natural world and all that is in it. In fact, the author’s appreciation for life can sometimes be overwhelming, as the awesomeness of the world is focused through his often childlike eyes.
Lorri Bauston, executive director of Farm Sanctuary, is the first guest essayist, and her remarkably personal story is absolutely wrenching and sure to bring tears to all but the most stoic eyes. Other notable contributors include famed Canadian artist Robert Bateman, biologist Marc Bekoff, well-traveled author and activist Lynn Jacobs, and the "enemy of Alaska," tireless conservationist Deborah L. Williams. The final contributor, leader of the Vancouver-based "Empowering People" workshops, Stephen E. Linn, emphasizes the need for humanity to live cooperatively if we are to sustain our future. This unique book closes with Ethan’s view on what it takes to get us from here (the highway to Hell) to there (sustainable living) and presents a list of suggestions.
This book, while not revolutionary, is insightful, and embodies the "think globally, act locally" approach of modern environmentalism. Though some of the essays seem short in both length and depth, several of them are remarkable in their ability to present the most important issues facing the world today. Pearls of wisdom abound throughout the book. It is a perfect gift for a Gulf Islander, a Van-Islander, or even a city-dweller. In fact, it’s the perfect present for anyone who wonders how one person can make a difference, as it clearly presents inspirational essays from 32 individuals who are helping to change the world and preserve our future. Each time a member of society acts, based on ideas gleaned from a book like this, we are one step closer to the critical mass needed to save our Earth.
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