| The process - and progress - of civilization |
| Coastalfields Suggested Reading |
| How to Obtain These Books: Coastalfields is proud to recognize the impact of the many people that have contributed to the process and progress of civilization by citing their works. These works may be obtained for reading through several ways. The very best way to obtain these texts is through the public library system. The librarians Coastalfields works with are always ready and able to find even the most obscure text (and some of these suggested readings are quite obscure). Often, if they are not in the library system, they may be obtained through Interlibrary Loan. Contact your local library for more information. The next-best way to obtain these texts is to purchase them. Coastalfields offers some through the Coastalfields Press, the rest may be obtained through your local bookstore. Coastalfields refers would-be readers through links to the Coastalfields Press, the independent Denver bookseller the Tattered Cover. When you follow the links presented for each book and purchase the book from the Tattered Cover, Coastalfields recieves a referral fee of about 5%. You can also try Google's Book Search to read these and other books for free! Just type in a subject you want to learn more about. Google searches all the books they've digitized for the words. |
| CONTENTS 1. Agriculture: here are books used by Coastalfields every day for the operation of our farm and ranch, for the research and for the development of Active Fallow. 2. Ecology and Human Studies: here are books used by Coastalfields every day to identify and work with the numerous plants, animals, fungi and the other creatures with whom we share our land...and the people with whom we work everyday! 3. Cooking, Nutrition and Medicine: here are books that Coastalfields uses to keep us strong and able to do the work we need to and want to do. 4. the Coastalfields Press: and, of course, we suggest the books published by the Coastalfields Press. All titles are available for FREE online download, or in a variety of beautiful binding options. A wide selection of topics are covered, including Agriculture, Ecology and Cooking, Nutrition and Medicine. Our titles are mixed in with the rest! |
| 1. Agriculture Ages of Gaia, by James Lovelock, 1988 The Gaia hypothesis is what motivated much of Coastalfields' early agroecological research; it is a profound, fundamental inquiry into macrobiology. This book follows "Gaia, a New Look at Life on Earth" by expanding the ideas developed in Lovelock's first work. Agroecology, by Miguel Altieri, 1987 This, one of the first inquiries into agroecology, is a good survey of some of the topics of agroecology with emphasis placed on the science that connects the macroecosystem to the microecosystem. Album of Horses, by Marguerite Henry, 1978 An excellent showcase of horse breeds and riding disciplines, with lovely illustrations. Excellent for both the novice horseperson and the Grand Prix equestrian! For our review, see the Coastalfields Cultural News Volume 1 Issue 1 The Ants, byBert Holldobler and Edward O Wilson, 1990 This is the best book to have for questions on ants. It has essays on the importance of ants, classifiction, oritings, colony life cycle, social organization, colony odor and kin recognition, queens, communications, caste and division of labor, foraging strategies, territory, population regulation, organization of species communities, symbiotic relationships, specialized predators, army ants, fungus growing ants, harvesting ants, weaver ants and collecting, culturing and observing ants. Complete with illustrations. Brighty of the Grand Canyon, by Marguerite Henry, 1953 THIS BOOK IS FICTION This story is about the miners of the 1800's near the Grand Canyon, and the donkey that helped them. Gaia, a New Look at Life On Earth, by James Lovelock, 1979 The Gaia hypothesis is what motivated much of Coastalfields' early agroecological research; it is a profound, fundamental inquiry into macrobiology, simultaneously proving Montesqueiu's fundamental economic theory (that the interests of the individual lie in the betterment of the whole), and validating both Fukuoka's and Tull's methods of agriculture. a Short Inquiry into the History of Agriculture, in Ancient, Mediaeval, and Modern Times. By Chandos Wren Hoskyns, Esq. First published for the author by Bradbury and Evans, 11 Bouverie St., London, in 1849. Digitally "cleaned" and preserved by Aaron Brachfeld in 2005. With introduction by Aaron Brachfeld, Director of Farming Operations for Coastalfields. This is a wonderful look into the origins and progress of agriculture, and is an excellent introduction for the modern agriculturalist by their ancestors into humanity's long-term hopes for the cultivation of the human spirit by a cultivation of the land. the History, by Herodotus, translated by David Grene This was the first history written, and Herodotus may be credited not only with this, but also by birthing scientific inquiry and taking the first steps towards logical reasoning. It is principally about the war of the Persians against the Greeks, but the philosophy asserted here influenced scientists from Jethro Tull to Masanobu Fukuoka: Herodotus established the belief in causitive reaction. It is a good read, engaging and entertaining, too! the History-From the Founding of the City (in 14 volumes), by Titus Livius Livy This history, following on the footsteps of Herodotus, examines the foundation and collapse of the Roman people. With important observations on the relationship between a people and their home, it also documents a civilization not too different from our own. It documents the trivial and the sublime: from the first child abuse prosecution (the defense won), the first jail, the first prisoner released on bail and bail jumper (the same man), the first first contact the Romans had with the Gauls, the peaceful establishment of democracy from a Kingdom, etc. Most importantly (to Coastalfields), it documents the civilizing effect agriculture has on people the world over, providing ample evidence to Columella's claim that the civilization of the land begins with the civilization of the spirit of those who would civilize the land. the Horse Hoeing Husbandry Fifth Edition in Six Volumes: By Jethro Tull, Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate Volume 1: the First Edition, by Jethro Tull in 1731, Volume 2: the Second Edition, by Jethro Tull in 1743, Volume 3: the Fifth Edition, by Jethro Tull. Edited, Updated and Modernized Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate in 2008 (with translational assistance from Justin Walker), Volume 4: Garden Helpers, by Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate in 2008. An illustrated encyclopedia of plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, viruses and protoviruses, with notes on behavior and known interactions in farms and ranches, and potential for domestication. Volume 5: On Agriculture, by Lucius Junius Moderatus Columella, presented with latin and English translations side-by-side, translation by Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate in 2010, Volume 6: How to Establish a Farm, Take Over an Existing Farm, or Expand a Successful Farm. An illustrated step-by-step guide that includes notes on diversifying into the related industries of forrestry, milling, oil pressing and electrical generation. By Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate in 2010 Justin Morgan Had a Horse, by Marguerite Henry, 1954 THIS BOOK IS FICTION This fictional story is based on the true events, people, and horses who were involved in the founding of the Morgan breed of horses. Newbery Honor winner King of the Wind, by Marguerite Henry, 1948 This fictional work is based on the true story of the founding of the Thoroughbred breed of horses from the Godolphin Arabian. Newbery Medal winner. Misty of Chincoteague, by Marguerite Henry, 1947. THIS BOOK IS FICTION. Perhaps Henry's most well known work, this story is about the wild ponies of Chincoteague island and the two children who work hard to train a mare and foal. Newbery Honor winner. the Natural Way of Farming by Masanobu Fukuoka 1985 This is Mr. Fukuoka's technical manual that followed his "One Straw Revolution" (see below). On Agriculture ("De Re Rustica"), by Lucius Junius Columella, about 100 AD. In three volumes: volume 1, volume 2, volume 3. This was one of the first books on agriculture, and represents the beginning of an understanding that there is a connection between the people and the action of agriculture. This book fundamentally influenced Jethro Tull. The One Straw Revolution by Masanobu Fukuoka, 1978 Mr. Fukuoka pioneered natural farming and came to an almost anti-Tullian system through scientific inquiry. Mr. Fukuoka seeks to make a perfectly self-sustainable system, and relies on the same principles that Mr. Tull does to achieve an entirely different end. Coastalfields uses Mr. Fukuoka's techniques as much as Mr. Tull's, and highly recommends his book. After "The One Straw Revolution," the reader should progress to "The Natural Way of Farming," 1985. Organic Lies: Misconceptions of the US Organic Act in America and the World. By Mary Choate. Do you ever wonder what Organic really means? Whether it is as environmentally friendly as its promoters say? What pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals Organic farms can use? Protect yourself against the lies perpetuated by Organic farms and by farmers practicing "alternative" agriculture by studying the law, by brushing up on your chemistry, by learning what questions to ask your farmer or grocer, and by learning how to secure safe food for yourself and everyone you love! Learn about how Organic farms are certified, what (synthetic and organic) fertilizer, pesticide, herbicide and post-harvest chemicals and materials organic farms are required to use, about alternative agriculture...and about how to grow food while helping the environment! Permaculture, by Bill Mollison, 1988 This, one of the first inquiries into agroecology, like Altieri's "Agroecology" is a good survey of some of the topics of agroecology--with more emphasis on techniques for ecosystem management and creation. Unlike Fukuoka, Mollison argues for a very active presence of humans in the formation of the agroecology. The Big Book of Preserving the Harvest, by Carol W Costenbader, 2002 This book will discuss and instruct on how to preserve the harvest of fruits, vegetables, herbs and all kinds of foods. Soil Science Simplified, by Milo Harpstead, Thomas Sauer and William Bennett, illustrated by Mary Bratz, first edition: 1980. While lacking in soil microbiology, the basics of soil science are well covered in this book More Agriculture titles are coming soon! 2. Ecology and Human Studies 50 Simple Things You Can Do to Save the Earth, by The Earthworks Group, 1989 The title says it all, although actually this book contains many more things than that. While not all the tips and facts are still true (legislation has changed since 1989 for several of the topics covered), most of them are still relevant today, and are truly simple to do! Bats, by Sylvia Johnson, 1985. A great introduction to the winged rodentia that are so wonderful to see in the fields. Book of Greek Myths, Book of Norse Myths, by Ingri and Edgar D'Aulaires An essential companion to Freud, Livy, Columella or others, this primer on classical mythology is FULLY illustrated and beautiful. It is a wonderful read for children or adults. Butterflies Through Binoculars: A Field Guide to the Butterflies of Western North America, by Jeffrey Glassburg, 2001. A great field guide for butterflies that uses photos instead of drawings, and often has several photos per butterfly species for easier identification. Butterflies In the Backyard, by Scott Shalaway, 2004. This book is full of information about butterflies; it is scientifically based, but written for the everyday butterfly watcher. It also includes a helpful chapter on attracting butterflies to your garden. Dragonflies Through Binoculars: A Field Guide to the Dragonflies of Western North America, by Sidney W. Dunkle, 2000. An excellent field guide for identifying dragonflies, with several good chapters about their life cycles, behavior, and more. Dragonflies, by C. Berger, 2004. Our favorite dragonfly book! Berger explains in excellent detail and clarity everything you could want to know about dragonflies, while using everyday terminology and language so everyone can learn and enjoy. Dragonflies of the World, by Jill Silsby, 2001. While other dragonfly resources often cite this book, we find the organization to be poor and the information sometimes difficult for the amateur dragonfly watcher to understand. However, the photographs of dragonflies from all parts of the world are amazing. The complete work of Dr. Sigmund Freud. These medical researches into human psychology have immediate and direct applications to understanding not only the human species, but the animal species that humanity shares the world with. We reccomend especially, "Five Lectures on Psycho-Analysis," "The Ego and the Id," "An Outline of Psycho-Analysis," "Inhibitions, Symptoms and Anxiety," and "Civilization and Its Discontents." The Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud - the only authorized English translation, edited by James Strachey - is available in a new edition by Freud's biographer, Peter Gay. the Field Guide to Wildlife Habitats of the Western United States and the Field Guide to Wildlife Habitats of the Eastern United States, both by Janine M. Benyus, 1989 These field guides not only help in identifying animals and plants, but inform the reader as to their role in the ecoystem, common behavior patterns, survival strategies, is beautifully and fully illustrated, improved with maps and with informative charts. The Jumping Frog of Calavaras County, by Mark Twain This amusing story teaches lots about translation, humor, ethics, business and, of course, frogs. Knight of the Two Swords, translated by Ross Arthur and Noel Corbett This beautiful story teaches a lot about the expectations of students and teachers, of friends and neighbors. A delightful read from mideaval Europe. Life of the Snail, by Theres Buholzer, 1986. Nearly complete documentation of the life, habits and environment of the snail. A beautiful book that inspires learning about all animals. One of our absolute favorites! Looking at Pictures, an Introduction to Art for Young People, by Joy Richardson 1997 This wonderful introduction to art theory is excellent not only for "young people," but for all people. Great applications not only for self-expression, but also for marketing and sales! Lowdown on Earthworms, by Norma Dixon, 2005. This children's book is an excellent source of information on worms, and includes instructions on how to start a "worm farm." North American Tree Squirrels, by Michael A. Steele and John L. Koprowski, 2001. This excellent review of squirrel research is enjoyable and informative for all ages! It takes the reader from the basic anatomy of squirrels and scientifically develops the topic to eventually show how squirrels are an important and necessary species to the entire biosphere in which they live. Secret Worlds, by Stephen Dalton, 2003 This excellent book is filled with information on innumerable creatures, from mice to owls, from butterflies to spiders, from bush babies to geckos, and more. It also teaches how to photograph wildlife, including technical information on camera use and important information on how to find and/or handle the subject (and make sure the subject does not handle you all the way to the hospital!). Beautiful, beautiful book. Stories for Picnics Series: By Aaron Brachfeld, 2005 Picnics in the Wood and other Bedtime Stories, Picnics in the Kitchen and other Afternoon Stories, Picnics on the Shore and other Morning Stories . Illustrated collection of short stories on the endurance of love in our modern world; of quiet ponds and new friends, runaway stampedes of cattle and knightly battle, new hats and old friends, restaurants, dragons and nuclear weapons. These stories will entertain all children under the age of 100 years old, and present thoughtful meditations, humorous situations and depth to satisfy the adults and elders who will read them to children. Silkworms, by Sylvia A. Johnson, 1982. Although it is written as a children's book, this book on the moths who produce silk and the people who raise them is very well written and contain a wealth of information for all ages to appreciate. It also is very well illustrated with large color photos. Snails, by Sylvia A. Johnson, 1982. A work of art that introduces the snail to the reader step by step in a way that both satisfies and allows further inquiry to be imagined. Snakes, by Sylvia A. Johnson, 1986. An ideal introduction to the snake, with information on lifecycycle, behavior and environment. More Ecology titles are coming soon! 3. Cooking, Nutrition and Medicine At Home in France: Eating and Entertaining with the French, by Jean-Bernard Naudin, et al, 1990 Each chapter in this book showcases the lifestyle and food of different regions in France. It contains a wealth of interesting information on the French way of living, and a variety of recipes. The dessert recipes are especially good! A note for the reader: "courgettes" are zucchini and "aubergines" are eggplant. Autointoxication. By John Harvey Kellogg. This research into the role of intestinal flora in disease and research into the changing of the intestinal flora, will help anyone learn how to reverse the aging process, live a longer and healthier life, have greater endurance and be more mentally alert. It was first published by the Modern Medicine Publishing Co. of Battle Creek, Michigan in 1918 and then digitally "cleaned" and preserved by Aaron Brachfeld in 2006. With Introduction by Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate, Directors of Operations for Coastalfields. With color illustrations. a Treatise on Bread and Bread Making. By Sylvester Graham 1837. This essay describes the history, technique and importance of bread and bread making. It was published by Light and Stearns in 1837 and digitally "cleaned" and preserved by Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate in 2006. With Introduction by Mary Choate, Director of Ranching Operations for Coastalfields. The Cuisine of California by Diane Rossen Worthington, 1983 This text is currently available only through your public library, but is well worth checking out for its amazing combinations of fresh vegetables! Yum! Culinary Gardens: From Design to Palate by Susan McClure, 1997 Although the information on gardening presented in this book is not good, it does contain a nice variety of easy to follow recipes, most of which are vegetarian or easy to modify for a vegetarian diet. Eat Your Food. By Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate, 2006. This book is the only book you need to achieve gastronomical glory. It teaches you how to get your food from the ground to your gut, growing food using Active Fallow or collecting food in the wild, cooking with lots of healthy recipes, instructions and strategy to play many easy games (ranging from the vigorous games of squash and jai alai to the almost-sedentary art of petanque), directions for how to preserve food, instructions on how to cook many things at once, how to save money and eat better, and how to eat well while even on the road! Beautifully illustrated in full color, with a history of foods in a captivating glossary, this book is as fun to read as it is to use! King Arthur Flour (Not a book - this link will direct you to their recipe website) Not only do they make the best flour (try their white whole grain wheat flour!), but their recipes are WONDERFUL! The Joy of Cooking, by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker. First Printing: 1931. This book is one cooking book everyone should read: it describes not only the recipes, but also about the foods used in them, the principles in preparing them, an entire chapter on heating food (the differences between simmering, roasting and braising, etc.) and the history of cooking. It will teach you to prepare a meal from start to finish and how to preserve food. It has traditional and exotic recipes and - best of all - has more than 1000 helpful illustrations and diagrams. One drawback: it has many recipes for meat, and the recipes are not at all composed with the health of the eater in mind. La France Paysanne by Claude Villers and Jean-Bernard Naudin, 1996 Although this book requires fluency in French to read, it is full of interesting stories and information about the rural areas of France accompanied by local recipes. Natural Diet of Man. By John Harvey Kellogg. This essay, written in response to unscientific arguments to Dr. Kellogg's research, builds on his previous work, "Autointoxication." It was first published by the Modern Medicine Publishing Co. of Battle Creek, Michigan in 1923 and then digitally "cleaned" and preserved by Aaron Brachfeld in 2006. With Introduction by Aaron Brachfeld and Mary Choate, Directors of Operations for Coastalfields. With color illustrations. The Pasta Book, by Weldon Owen, 2002. This pasta book is advertised as being "the only pasta book you will ever need," however, while it does have hundreds of excellent recipes for pasta, Coastalfields feels that this may be overstating. Coastalfields reccomends this for when pasta has become "boring" because it encourages new and tasty ways of preparing noodles. Quinoa Corperation (Not a book - this link will direct you to their recipe website) Not only do they import quinoa, but they have some good ways of preparing it. Not many vegetarian recipes, but their recipes are flexible enough that you can simply not add the meat and they turn out fine. Real Fast Food by Nigel Slater, 1995 Coastalfields likes this cookbook for its quick, easy recipes that are delicious enough to eat every night. The recipes are inspired by cuisine from around the world. Renoir's Table: The Art of Living and Dining with One of the World's Greatest Impressionist Painters, by Jean-Bernard Naudin, et al, 1994 This book contains a wealth of information about French painter Renoir's life and art, and includes many of his favorite recipes, most of which are simple to follow. Vegetarian Planet, by Didi Emmons, 1997 This cookbook has a wide variety of vegetarian foods inspired by flavors from around the world. Great bean recipes! More Cooking, Nutrition and Medicine titles coming soon! |
| We frequently get asked... "Why is there fiction in your suggested reading?" There is fiction in our suggested reading for many reasons. One of the more important reasons include fiction's unique ability to convey ideas - especially the relationship of things to the reader and the reader's world. Other important reasons include the human nature to learn through stories and the suitability of stories to teach factual information. For clarity, all fiction is noted by the words "THIS BOOK IS FICTION." |