I am so happy to write about a new book Tending to Eden by Scott Sabin. Scott is the executive director of Plant with Purpose and a friend. Therefore it would be impossible for me to be 100% objective in offering a short review of Tending to Eden. Even so, I can say with sincerity that this book, which I have anticipated and was glad to receive as an advanced reader, does not disappoint.
Just yesterday on NPR there was a discussion of the efforts to rebuild Haiti. The point was made that, while it surely is important to reconstruct the urban infrastructure, it would be a real loss to do so at the expense of addressing the endemic deforestation across that nation. The commentator rightly pointed out that even if new buildings are created in urban centers which are more earthquake proof, the primary cause of Haiti's devastation -- that is, deforestation -- could remain unaddressed.
Plant with Purpose has been working in Haiti (and neighboring Dominican Republic) for a generation. They know the causes of deforestation and the impact on the land, the economy, and the people of the regions that are effected by it. Scott's hands-on experience and his knowledge of the subject of sustainable agriculture make this book a must read. His ability to explain the issues and connect them with discussions of Christian faith will be especially relevant for those in the church. I highly recommend giving time to Tending to Eden!
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