Apart from the books listed below, why not give a gift of a local book, whether it’s a local cook book, hiking book, day trips, or any topic of interest. Giving a family a book that lists family activities in your area will be a welcome gift on that day when the kids whine, “We’re bored.” When this happens at my place, I hand them a broom and mop so I know my kids would be relieved to have an alternative.

Canadian books to give and enjoy this season

The Better World Shopping Guide: 2nd Edition
By Ellis Jones
Published by New Society Publishers

This is a new edition of this pocket-sized book that grades products. If you would like something you can toss in your back pocket, jacket pocket or purse and pull out for reference when you get to the store, then this is your answer. You will find that some of the products reviewed are not available in Canada. Although published in Canada, this guide was researched and written by an American.

Hope in Shadows: Stories and Photographs or Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside
By Brad Cran and Gillian Jerome
Published by Arsenal Pump Press

For five years now, residents of the Downtown East Side (also known as Canada’s poorest postal code) have been provided with cameras to document their lives, thus giving them a voice and us an opportunity to leave our stereotypes and stories behind. This book allows the residents to tell the real story of life in their neighbourhood.

“A sense of kinship and peer support, above all else, comes through in the 32 intimate, engaging stories in Hope in Shadows…. The stories crackle with energy, individuality, and often a determination to be heard.”

―Georgia Straight

How It All Vegan: Irresistible Recipes for an Animal-Free Diet
By Tanya Barnard and Sarah Kramer
Published by Arsenal Pump Press

Whether you are vegan, vegan curious, or just want to eat fewer animal products, this is a fun book to check out. It has a range of recipes from soups and salads to entrees and desserts. Did you think you couldn’t make delicious cookies and muffins without eggs? Not only is it possible, they can be downright dangerously delicious. Bon appetite!

Almost Green
By James Glave
Published by Greystone Books

I admit that I haven’t read this one yet, but it’s on my list this season. (hint, hint).  I have really enjoyed reading the author’s website, so I am looking forward to reading the book.  I really think the subtitle says it all: How I Built an Eco-Shed, Ditched My SUV, Alienated the In-Laws, and Changed My Life Forever.

The 100 Mile Diet
By Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon
Published by Random House Canada

I really enjoyed this one. Their journey is inspiring, thought-provoking and downright funny at times. They are honest in their telling, yet still in love with each other at the end of the story. If you haven’t read this one yet, do so soon. I owe my love of local/seasonal cook books to them, once you are inspired you will be amazed at the gems that await you.

If you would like to be a truly green bookworm, check out www.ecobrain.com. That way you read the books you love and save trees. At the time of writing 10,704 tress had been saved so click on over and check out a couple of titles so we can save entire forests. I don’t know where they are located but I’m guessing they are not in Canada. Since shipping from great distances isn’t an issue, I thought I would sneak this one in.