Honestly, I probably should have DNFed this. While the premise is unique and interesting, it feels borderline unedited. There are continuity issues, gramatical errors, both too much and not enough detail (the literal structure of the Daffodil Inn was described in such technical detail is a great example of this) - it was distracting! I’ve liked other books by Poston but this is not a good example of her talent.

I have nothing but respect for Kimmerer, and find her writing beautiful and poetic (and adore her reading voice). This is an easily digestible 128 pages, digging primarily into the idea that hoarding resources and operating in a scarcity mindset might actually keep us disconnected not only from one another but also from the natural world. Her writing style is accessible, and feels like listening to stories around a campfire instead of reading a research paper - an approach to activist writings I find highly effective.

If I hadn’t already had my mind cracked open by a few years of spending a week in the Nevada desert mainlining a gift economy (IYKYK), this would have absolutely rocked my world. Even so, it’s always a welcome reminder that the way our society is currently set up purposefully drives people to feel like they are behind, like they don’t have enough, like they are so close and yet so far from satisfaction. It is a radical choice to share what little things you have with no expectation of reciprocity, and one that Kimmerer encourages us all to make. I also really appreciate the gentle nudge to remember that while it’s easy to lay full blame for climate change at the feet of the corporations responsible for causing the most damage, it’s equally as important to work on reframing your own mindset towards consumption and the feeling of having enough.

I did miss Kimmerer’s more winding storytelling style seen in Braiding Sweetgrass, but it’s clear she had some specific things to say - and I’m glad she did, even if I wish there was more.