Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life
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Are you confused by all the advice you hear and see daily on how to "go green"? Do you want to incorporate earth-friendly practices into your life, but you don't know where to start? Don't stress! Green guru Sophie Uliano has sorted through all the eco-info out there and put everything you need to know about living a green lifestyle right at your fingertips. In Gorgeously Green, Sophie offers a simple eight-step program that is an easy and fun way to begin living an earth-friendly life. Each chapter covers topics from beauty to fitness, shopping to your kitcheneven your transportation. Whether it's finding the right lipstick, making dinner, buying gifts, or picking out a hot new outfit, finally, there is a book that tackles your daily eco-challenges with a take-charge plan. Just consider Sophie your go-to girl with all the eco-solutions. Find out how to:
The book's dozens and dozens of eco-friendly tips, products, and practices combine to form a treasure trove of practical advice for every possible way to become stylishly green. Your questions about dressing, makeup, eating, shopping, cleaning, travel, and more are all answered right here. Adopting a green lifestyle is among the most positive, forward-thinking, and personally fulfilling choices that anyone can make--and Gorgeously Green shows that it doesn't have to be tedious, time-consuming, or glamourless! Questions for Sophie Uliano We had the opportunity to chat with Sophie Uliano over e-mail about Gorgeously Green, her suggestions for saving the Earth, and the very real possibility of becoming a hippie. Here's what Sophie had to say about the economics of eco-consciousness, the allure of non-toxic nail polish, and of course, whether it's truly easy being green. Amazon.com: I've heard a common complaint that energy-saving light bulbs, organic food and clothing, and other "green" products are not as economical as traditional products. Is that true? Any tips for readers who want to be eco-conscious and budget-conscious too? Sophie Uliano: I think that going green has a double meaning in that it also is about saving money. There is no way that I would or could go green if it meant that I was going to have to pay much more. If you make the cleaning spray that I suggest in my book, you will save a bunch on cleaning supplies because it's an all-purpose cleaner that I use on almost everything (a great germ-buster too). You will pay a little more upfront for energy-saving light bulbs, but as they last 15 times longer, you will save money in the long run. Food is the only thing that you may have to pay a bit more for, however, I think that your health is an important investment, so I choose to save on boring cleaning supplies and treat my family to food that not only tastes more delicious, but will keep them healthy and vibrant. Remember that if you follow all the energy-saving tips in the book, you are going to save a wad of cash too--so it's a win/win. Amazon.com: I think many people are interested in making more sustainable choices, but when it comes to the heavy lifting it can be hard to break old habits. We tend to think, "Someone else will ride their bike to work today--I'll drive like I always do." What advice do you have that can help people "walk the talk"? Uliano: I agree that it is hard to break old habits. My suggestion is to break one habit at a time. Choose the one thing that bothers you most. For me it is using paper towels when I know that I can easily use a rag instead. Make a decision about the change you want to make and tell your friends and family that you have decided to do this one thing and that you want their support. It could be that you are going to cook one organic meal from scratch once a week, or that you are going to air-dry your clothes this summer or simply that you will wash out a barely used zip-lock bag, instead of throwing it away--easy! Amazon.com: Furthermore, I've heard many people worry that eco-consciousness is the first step toward becoming a granola hippie, to use one of your own phrases from the book. Do you have to be a hippie to go green? Uliano: You so don't have to become the tree hugger/hippie to live a green way of life. I feel passionately that you can still have the glitz, the glam and the gleaming house because now there are so many eco-friendly companies that offer you safe and healthy choices: nail polishes, organic clothes that are fabulous to name a few. Amazon.com: Not everyone lives in an area where green options are available and accessible. Can you suggest a few ways that readers can live a greener lifestyle even if they don't have easy access to car-sharing companies, wet dry-cleaners, and other alternatives you mention in your book? Uliano: If you don't have easy access to some of the green options in my book, it really doesn't matter. No matter where you live, you can make a start. I recently visited my in-laws in Georgia, who have fewer options than we do here in Los Angeles; however, they have embarked on making their own cleaners, composting, growing veggies etc. There's advantages to living in a metropolitan city in that you can buy all the great eco-stuff, but if you live in a more rural setting, it's fantastic too because you may have a yard in which you can grow tomatoes or air-dry your laundry. I'd pick the latter if given the choice! Amazon.com: Your book is mainly directed toward female readers--what tips do you have for men who are interested in making sustainable lifestyle changes? Uliano: I wrote my book for women because I realized that as a mom, wife and working girl I could show like-minded women how easy it is to become green, however, men can totally benefit from my book too! My husband doesn't have a huge interest in non-toxic nail polish, but he's fascinated with everything solar and has started biking everywhere. We work together as a team, inspiring each other with our daily green discoveries--it's fun! |
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| 06-30-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This is the best book i have bought in a long time.. Very insightful and life changing.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-02 02:16:50 EST)
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| 06-30-08 | 1 | (NA) |
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I wanted to like this book, I really did. I found it to be very cute, but a bit of a puff piece.
There's alot of tid bits of information, but nothing substantial. Some information is conflicting - on one page Sophie says she avoids microwaves and doesn't want it altering the molecules in her food. Yet, on another page, she writes that the microwave is the most eco-friendly way to cook, as it uses the least amount of energy. And yoga sun salutations and exercise instructions don't belong in a green guide. They just don't! I also purchased Easy Green Living by Renee Loux and found it to be much more substantial and informative - like a mini encyclopedia on what you need to do to live green. (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-02 02:16:50 EST)
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| 06-29-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book has so many wonderful ideas on how to go green. It also made me really think about my life and my contribution to our amazing planet. We can all do so much to help and NOW is the time! I hope you will read this book and implement several of its ideas. I already have...and I know that I am making a difference. YOU can, too.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-02 02:16:50 EST)
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| 06-23-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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A friend of mine got this book for me and I love it. Yes some of the beauty products she suggests are a little pricey but she always gives a couple of affordable options as well, and you can always do your own research and find other things on the websites she mentions (she can't list every product out there, it would take up the whole book).
Really good book. (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-30 00:53:05 EST)
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| 06-19-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I absolutely loved this book. Prepare to be inspried by Sophies no-nonsense approach to going green. I also love that she doesn't sugar coat things - some aspect of going green aren't easy, but well worth it in the long run.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-23 02:42:31 EST)
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| 06-14-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book has totally changed my life and the choices I make each day. The book is easy to read and very realistic about how little changes can make a big impact. The steps are set up so you can be a little green, or the very greenest girl. Careful, this book will change your outlook on life and the power you have to change it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-20 00:11:23 EST)
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| 06-08-08 | 1 | 2\2 |
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I am glad that I got this book out of the library. Many of the suggestions on going green here are horribly expensive. Some of those skin moisturizers are $80 a bottle. The author has three kids who will probably grow up to build homes in developments, further cutting back what natural environment we have left. I think this woman is way more into "being green" as a cool expensive fad than actually caring about the environment. She is of the common type that wants to "save the environment" "for the children" instead of saving the earth for it's own sake.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-14 00:11:42 EST)
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| 06-05-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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Thank you Sophie for making going green so much easier and doing all the research!!!! I love the bath oils with sea salt and I am sharing with all my friends.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-09 00:12:24 EST)
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| 06-04-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I needed this book. Saw Sophie on Oprah and was ready for this. I have been wanting to start helping our living situation. Now I am giving this as birthday presents to all my friends!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-09 00:12:24 EST)
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| 06-02-08 | 4 | (NA) |
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Lots of great ideas on becoming "green" in this book. A little scant on some of the details when it comes to health risks associated with non-green products, but a good starting point for the beginner. Also, some good suggestions of where to buy many organic products but I wonder if its also a little bit of marketing for the companies listed, including her own. Overall, an easy read and very informative.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-05 14:33:53 EST)
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| 05-31-08 | 5 | 0\1 |
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This book has changed my life. It is overwhelming at first but every week I make at least one change in what I buy and how I live. I am so glad that I bought it!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-03 00:13:02 EST)
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| 05-31-08 | 5 | 0\1 |
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this product is great. The book gives th reader tons of creative, even simple ideas to be earth friendly. The sale was a breeze from this seller.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-03 00:13:02 EST)
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| 05-30-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book is a wonderful starting place for anyone who wants to make small changes that will impact thier family and environment. Sophie Uliano is a wealth of knowledge. This book is full of tips and small changes you can make to make a big difference. She also includes numerous websites for further information (I love safecosmetics.org). I would strongly recommend this book to everyone.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-03 00:13:02 EST)
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| 05-30-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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Gorgeously GreenWe are implementing many ideas in this book to make our family and planet a healthier place to live.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-03 00:13:02 EST)
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| 05-27-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book has tons of great practical help for the novice. You can learn how to be eco-conscious without living like a hippie.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-27-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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Fantastic Book-everyone needs this!! I'm giving it as gifts to all my friends...forever..
It gives you "the lists" of what we should be using without too much fluff....I have been looking for this direct "just get it" info for ages. Thanks. (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-27-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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Love it! There are so many great tips for the beginning environmentalist or the more advanced. Definitely recommend!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-27-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I loved this book! I was already committed to doing the best for our environment however, this book took it to the next level. It helped me to understand the things I put on my body or wash my hair with not only hurt me, but hurt the environment. I would recommend this book for the seasoned environmentalist or for someone who is just in the beginning stages of going green...gorgeously green!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-27-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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A great help to get started and not feel guilty. You can start anywhere in the book you want. But be sure to read the beginning. I have bought two one for me and one for my Mother.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-26-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book is great for someone who wants to become more green and doesn't know how to do it. It is full of great information.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-26-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book is really great at explaining things while still knowing how women feel. It suggests lots of brands per subject to find online and in stores. The author is great at understanding how women think and feel knowing that women usually want to find products to help them look better. Now they can and the products are more healthy and environmentally friendly. I suggest this book for every woman, especially mothers.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-31 00:09:54 EST)
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| 05-25-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book although can be alarming with all the things we currently have that are "toxic": this is a great book for those people who want to start going green but with realistic ways of doing it. I love that she refuses to give up style and is still making a positive impact on the earth. After seeing her on the Oprah show I realized I could do more if I had someone telling me HOW to do it. I know I can't do it ALL (maybe I will in the future) but I can make little changes. I use the veggie wash and use this as a reference guide.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-29 01:11:51 EST)
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| 05-25-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This book is fantastic! A must read for anyone who is looking to make healthy and eco-friendly changes. I refer back to frequently, so much so it's on my kitchen counter. After you make these changes you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-29 01:11:51 EST)
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| 05-25-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I like this book, it is well written, it gives a lot of ideas for making small or big changes in our life in order to help save our planet. There are a gazillion web sites to purchase more appropriate items. It makes the task of changing our habits much easier to tackle. I would recommend this book to anyone ready to make changes.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-29 01:11:51 EST)
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| 05-20-08 | 5 | 1\1 |
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This is a fantastic book. Sophie does a great job inspiring folks to think about their impact on Mother Earth. She has inspired me to stop buying bottled waters (use a refillable bottle) and read ingridients lists on products before I put them on my skin. I also recently stopped using my dryer and set up a clothesline in my backyard. It's beautiful!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-26 01:12:29 EST)
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| 05-10-08 | 3 | 10\11 |
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I tried really hard to love this book. While I truly admire Sophie Uliano's enthusiasm and witty tone, there are few "buts" that were quite annoying. What's worse, these nasty "buts" made me question whether the advice given in the book is authentic, useful, and genuine.
1. Do yourself a favour and skip the beauty section of the book. Ms Uliano had to spend more time researching before writing a segment on green beauty. Many of "organic" and "green" products she recommends are loaded with potentially toxic substances such as synthetic preservatives and fragrances. Consistency is key. Poorly researched tips in one section undermine author's credibility in other areas, and in general undermine reader's trust in the whole green living thing. 2. While the book is very informative and packed with easy tips, most chapters look like a link exchange section of a website. Too many links to websites - and some aren't that relevant. What's more irritating, the author blatantly promotes her own website on every page. It may be fun once or twice, but not in every chapter.Sometimes it feels like the author didn't really care about adding more information to the book - why bother if you can easily upload all the articles online? Speaking of online: most of the tips can be easily found online FOR FREE. 3. Too many typos. It's "Herbatint", not "Hebatint", mind you. And this hair dye is so chemically loaded, you shouldn't really mention it in a green living guide. When I found ten typos, I stopped counting, and I wasn't even in the middle of the book. I know, it's not the author's fault, it's the publisher's lack of effort, but still. Such things don't support the idea of importance of green living. In general, the book is an easy uplifting read that may convert few babyboomers into "green girls". (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-21 01:11:13 EST)
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| 05-02-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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this book is a must for all moms. it has opened my eyes to the toxins and dangers that are in everyday products. this book gives simple and practical ways to introduce new and healthy items and rid yourself of the bad. it's a new favorite for me.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-21 00:05:57 EST)
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| 05-01-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I saw her on Oprah and thought I'd buy the book but wasn't all that excited about it. Wow, it's wonderful. It has a break down of all the info you need to make educated dicussions. Also, it isn't full of old environmental attitudes of all or nothing. Sofie says again and again doing one thing makes a difference. She also tells you where to find the green alternatives that work!!! I highly recommend this book. I've bought books for my mom and sister. Both of whom love the book. I've also just purchased more books for my children's teachers.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-21 00:05:57 EST)
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| 05-01-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I saw her on Oprah and thought I'd buy the book but wasn't all that excited about it. Wow, it's wonderful. It has a break down of all the info you need to make educated dicussions in one place. Also, it isn't full of old environmental attitudes of all or nothing. Sofie says again and again doing one thing makes a difference. She also tells you where to find the green alternatives that work!!! I highly recommend this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-20 00:54:03 EST)
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| 04-28-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I am someone who has always had a very quiet but consistent care about the environment. I grew up in mid-state New Jersey and could sadly surmise that all was not well with the air and water. And I am very keen to make informed/smart choices regarding my health. So when I saw Sophie Uliano on "Oprah" I was moved to get her book - and I am soooo happy I did. I'm thrilled to find a place where I can get so much critical information so conscientiously distilled for me regarding the day-to-day choices I make. This is deeply important material to get our selves and our earth healthy. Get this book for yourself, all the women in your lives who matter to you. Mind you, I think the boyfriends, husbands and sons will take a peek with given the Gorgeously Green cover art ;)
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-03 00:16:37 EST)
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| 04-25-08 | 5 | 1\3 |
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I have been looking for a book like this for a while now. More and more we are becoming aware of the impact we make on the environment and I for one strive to do my part. However, it's overwhelming to research and personally test out everything out there, which is one of the reasons why this book is so great. From beauty products to cleaning products, to lifestyle, this book has it all. It really is a must for every girl out there who really strives to do their part in this world!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-30 00:49:58 EST)
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| 04-24-08 | 5 | 1\4 |
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This book touches on everything you need to get started and seemingly all facets of consumer culture. There is also lots for us that are already self proclaimed "green girls". I particularly enjoyed the personal care section as this seems oft neglected. The section on cleaning covers both store bought and homemade green cleaners which I thought was nice for those that want options. The numerous web sites listed will help with further research, which I have found very valuable. This is all in all a great read and I would recommend it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-30 00:49:58 EST)
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| 04-23-08 | 5 | 0\2 |
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Brilliant! Just what those of us who want to live a more earth-friendly life needed. Sophie Uliano certainly broken down steps to making green changes that we can all make in our daily lives easy and understandable. She not only wrote her book in a clear not preachy way, but added personal humorious stories about her own path to living a more green life. I will enjoy using this book as an ongoing reference in my house for my family's less toxic well being. Her web site that is refered to in the book is a wealth of more empowering green info.
I have already given two as gifts to my sisters-in-law. (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-26 01:24:08 EST)
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| 04-21-08 | 5 | 1\1 |
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GREAT if you are new to the green scene and looking for small ways to start living a more eco-friendly life. I gave one to all my girlfriends as gifts and they love all of the tips.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-23 18:03:09 EST)
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| 04-16-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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This is a great book - easy to read, not at all preachy and packed with so much fantastic info, delicious recipes and helpful tips that anyone can make their lives a little 'greener', whatever their level of concern and desire. Who knew making an alternative/non-toxic room spray or floor cleaner could be so easy?! I loved the web-site information given throughout the book, which makes tracking down anything mentioned so much easier and was relieved to be guided through the maze of beauty products out there, which is especially helpful when the author has 'road-tested' everything herself.
There is so much information out now, bombarding us about how to 'green' every aspect of our lives in heavy-duty detail, that it's a welcome relief to find a book that is friendly and useful with easy suggestions supported by relevant information for making changes in your daily life. I look forward to seeing a 2nd book from this author sometime soon, hopefully packed with more of her helpful tips and up-to-the-minute information. We need more people trying to help make sense of our earth's plight and finding ways to help others who do not know where to begin, start to make their lives a little 'greener' each day - thanks for adding a sprinkling of good humor to guide us through the 8 simple steps! (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-18 05:30:53 EST)
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| 04-15-08 | 5 | (NA) |
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I know this book was written for women, but I highly recommend it to other Dads. With two daughters on the cusp of adolescence, it was full of great information about how to take pride in your appearance in an ethical, responsible way. Plus it teaches kids to appreciate the home they live in and the planet they live on. There was a lot of great tips I didn't know and funny anecdotes that a husband can certainly relate to. Well-written, smart and fun. It should be in all schools. This book is a parent's gift to the next generation.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-18 05:30:53 EST)
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| 04-14-08 | 5 | 0\1 |
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An amazing book with lots of thought provoking information. I loved the enthusiasm of the author, and felt like her tips were both practical and innovative. Definitely well worth reading.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-16 11:32:25 EST)
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| 04-13-08 | 5 | 2\6 |
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I am the last person alive anyone would think would "go green"...but Sophie makes it easy! Simple changes have helped me take better care of my family, help the planet, maintain my "cool aunt status" plus Sophie makes it FUN! Just knowing that the cost of organic foods has come down recently has helped me make that change in my shopping habits. (I still thought organic was 75% more expensive than regular) Understanding what my daughter's body lotion is made of (ick!) made me toss it and replace with organic. The book encouraged me take a look at all the products I use and, as they deplete, replace with organic. I have never tried yoga/meditation...but Sophie's recommendations have really made a difference. If you are a neophyte like I was, this is the only book you need to feel empowered to make positive changes and help the planet.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-16 11:32:25 EST)
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| 04-13-08 | 5 | 1\2 |
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This book is quite brilliant.It is packed full of information and helpful tips and written in an amusing way, without preaching. I just couldn't put it down, and shall be buying it to give to all my girl friends. It has really transformed my way of thinking. Well done Sophie Uliano I'm a convert to G.G. already! A fantastic book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-16 11:32:25 EST)
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| 04-12-08 | 5 | 1\5 |
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This book is so amazingly helpful for something that otherwise seemed so intimidating to me! How to start being green? What changes can I make? What changes am I actually willing to make? This book is like how to become more green for dummies!! It is full of no nonsense tips and great information that makes it seem easy and fool-proof. Ms. Uliano sounds smart and incredibly knowledgeable and yet seems approachable and unassuming. I finally feel that I can really get on board to live a greener lifestyle thanks to the help of this book!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-15 02:51:50 EST)
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| 04-10-08 | 4 | 0\1 |
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Gorgeously Green, by Sophie Uliano, is a hip new guide to making environmentally-friendly and healthy choices that fit your lifestyle. Each chapter is a step in the process of becoming Gorgeously Green with plenty of practical and concrete suggestions. If you still need a little push, Uliano prioritizes the information so you know which simple changes will give you the mot dramatic and immediate benefits. Written in a breezy "girlfriend" style, Gorgeously Green trims the sometimes overwhelming task of improving your life into manageable, but meaningful, steps. Also appreciated is the constant reminder that little changes can add up. Follow one small suggestion each day and you're on your way to a more eco-chic you. Although Uliano is obviously very intelligent and Gorgeously Green offers consistently smart advice, the tone sometimes veers a little towards the superficiality of La-La Land (Uliano is a yoga instructor in L.A.). For the most part, however, she accomplishes her goal of making the tips more accessible. Gorgeously Green isn't aimed towards the homemade dyed in the organic wool crunchy crowd-the audience is the everyday gal who wants to go green but doesn't want to sacrifice all glamor and convenience in the process. There are a lot of books that talk about green living in abstract terms, or bombard you with details without any structure, but Gorgeously Green offers a clear approach with plenty of actionable tips. For example, which organic deodorants actually work? Which ingredients are the worse environmental and health offenders? Which appliances are leaking the most energy in your house? Gorgeously Green has the helpful answers. There are plenty of shopping tips, but there is also an emphasis on reducing consumption-to lighten the load on both the environment and your wallet. Plus there is information about activism and ways to spread the word now that you are committed to a greener life. One of the strongest features of Gorgeously Green is the website access to interactive exams, printable lists, and up-to-date resources. So, when you head to the supermarket, drugstore, or even your own cabinet, you don't have to continually flip back and forth in the book. I've already taken my first step in becoming Gorgeously Green and I'm excited to continue to clean-up my house and my life for the benefit of my family and the planet. As you begin your journey, Gorgeously Green will travel with you. The smallest baby steps can lead you along the path of a holistic approach to earth-friendly, healthy lifestyle. (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-13 08:52:22 EST)
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| 04-10-08 | 4 | (NA) |
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This book has sections for every green aspect of life. It seems to be targeted at thirty to forty something mothers with young children, but I'm none of the above (20s single) and still found this book to be jammed packed with useful information. My favorite section was the beauty one. I was using a natural moisturizer I though was pretty safe but instead turned out to be a 7 out of 10 hazard on the Cosmetic Database! The book also includes an enlightening section on yoga routines which actually seem do-able. The house section is all encompassing, from your mattress down to your shower cleaner. Uliano also provides a handful of skincare recipes which are easy and straightforward. There were somethings that did annoy me with this book though. Number 1 is that the first chapter should just be ignored, it was boring and really didn't seem to have a point. Second is that there are several noticeable typos throughout the book. Third, Uliano plugs her website throughout all the sections. If you want to use any of the checklists or quizzes she has created, you need to register on the website first (also, I'm somehow not able to redeem the offer for a free Chico bag!). It's a bit off-putting. Fourth, I wish there were more food recipes provided as well. Maybe some vegan cupcakes or something? Fifth, a few of her tips seem a bit extreme, I'm probably not going to pack any carrot sticks the next time I go to the movies or an amusement park. Sixth, and this is my biggest gripe, I wish she would include some information on the cost of some of the products and services she lists! All-in-all, I'm very happy with this book. It literally has at least a brief overview of everything you could think about greening up (even weddings and dry cleaning) and has literally TONS of useful websites and resources in every section (except the first, which as I said before, is a waste of time). While this book won't make you look like the Vargas girl on the front, it will help you live your life in a more earth-friendly manner. I know I'll be referencing it for years to come.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-13 08:52:22 EST)
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| 04-08-08 | 4 | 9\11 |
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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 chapter 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. (Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-12 01:39:56 EST)
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