Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Possum Living by Dolly Freed
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Possum Living
The subtitle for this book reads, "How to Live Well Without a Job and With (Almost) No Money". Who could resist a title like that? Especially if one is prone toward frugality or a move toward simplifying one's life. It proved too much for me, and I found myself fascinated by the words of this (then) 18-year old girl and her perspective on simple living. So many of her ideas ring true for me.

The book begins by espousing the philosophy of living on practically no money, forgoing the usual route of career climbing in order to acquire more stuff. She states, "Many people, perhaps you among them, are not temperamentally suited for the 9-to-5 rat race but assume there is no other way to live."
The author then proceeds to discuss subjects from growing a garden in order to feed your family, to shopping at thrift stores for clothing, to making due with a bicycle or horse for transportation. These ideas have long been laid to rest until the recent financial difficulties in which many in our country find themselves. Although this book is over 30 years old, its concepts and basic pragmatism bode well considering our present economical situation. It bears reading, pondering and sharing.

2 comments:

  1. I have read Dolly's book cover to cover Daisy...she is unbelievable! it is also inspiring that this woman worked for NASA! with an education she got from the Public Library...hows that for an in your face self made American Woman? very inspirational!

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  2. Yeah, I'd say she's very resourceful. It just goes to show how far passion will take you! And you should know!

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