Imagine living for an entire year without money. Former businessman Mark Boyle did just that and here is his extraordinary and compelling story. How do friends and family react? What do you eat? How do you wash? Mark Boyle finds out the hard way and explores the troubling consequences of our obsession with money. Encountering cuttlefish toothpaste, seasonal foods, paper made out of mushrooms, and compost toilets, Boyle puts the fun into frugality and will inspire you to question what really matters in life.
Reviews
"The fascinating story of an important social experiment, told with humility, insight and great humor. Mark is a brave and big-hearted character whose example is an invitation to all of us to change the way we live – not just because we should, but also because we might enjoy it. Essential" Chris Cleave, New York Times #1 bestselling author of Little Bee
"Intriguing. It makes several very important points. A powerful look not so much into the past as into the future." Bill McKibben, author of Deep Economy: Economics as if the World Mattered
Customer Reviews
Environmentally concerned and witty as well., by ChristineEllenNYC
I was seeking a book on environmentalism and in particular a more first-person perspective on it, only without the sentiment and Romantic sensibility. I love Thoreau, and he has plenty of sparkling cobwebs for our appreciation, but he also reflects on dead mules, bean fields, and ice bubbles. The wide-ranging mind focused on environment is the draw. I tried very many books, including the much-loved "12 by 12." For my tastes, there were simply too many sparkling cobwebs, perhaps too few dead mules and ice bubbles. I might be a cynic. More likely, I grew up on a rural farm, and although I appreciate the glory of sunlight on snow, I also know that when your heat comes from a small Franklin stove, you're not all about the glitter. You're even willing to singe a nightgown to get a spot by the stove.
I wanted something other than Romantic reflection on nature. I tried the "witty" books "farewell my Subaru" (witty, but maybe wearingly witty?) and "up a creek without a paddle" (a home in Hawaii with all the amenities is off the grid, really?). This book by Boyle was my final selection, and I highly recommend it. He offers a coherent theory for his economic and environmental practices, has a witty voice (my favorite being his "personal ad" for dating while moneyless), and combines both in wonderful sidebars that explain in detail how to make your own paper and ink from common plants (he knows that you are unlikely to do this). Finally, the free cycling movement about which he educates readers really has had an impact, as he shows in his final page listing websites for freecycling, skillsharing, and freegan activities in most major cities. Even though the freegan lifestyle is unlikely to become a mass movement, Boyle's self-deprecating, detailed, clear, and compelling case study is a great read with long-lasting benefits.
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, Quick Read by Matt M.
This book can provide a great deal of information for anyone at any level of trying to change their lives to become more self sustainable. The author provides dozens of links to websites and other references, and also offers a riveting tale of the hardships of living for a full year without spending a single cent.
5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable and life changing book, by PPS076 (UK)
I decided to buy this book because I was in a crippling financial position at the time and needed all the help that I could get.
I was drawn in to the book from the onset and couldn't put it down. The book is well written and the information is structured in such a way that enables you to absorb a significant amount of information quickly with minimal effort. I read the book in two days.
The book activated a wide range of emotions in me throughout and it made me want to experience his journey for myself.
I viewed the world in a different way after I read it and I felt very guilty about some of the life choices that I have made throughout my life. I have now made many positive changes to my life since reading the book which has benefited me, the local community and the environment.
If you are thinking about buying this book in order to save money and are expecting to see a list of 1,001 money saving tips you will be disappointed although there are a number of areas in the book that will save you money if implemented effectively (i highlighted the money saving sections as I read through the book which is much easier than having to read it again and search for them).
Summary: A thoroughly enjoyable and life changing book that will change the way you view the world
5.0 out of 5 stars Refreshing escapism from consumer society, by Sarah
Living in this consumerist society it is refreshing to have Mark's insightful and inspiring account of his time living without money. I was both impressed by his commitment to live by his values, but also by the down to earth non-judgemental way he went about it - there was no sense of a 'holier than thou' attitude, rather the book was humourous and self-deprecating as it told of his numerous adventures living without money. I'd highly recommend this book - it is unique and will broaden the mind as to what is possible.