Rural Renaissance: Renewing the Quest for the Good Life by John Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist Foreword by Bill McKibben, author of The End of Nature available May, 2004 from New Society Publishers

In the '60s it was called the "back to the land" movement, and in Helen and Scott Nearings' day, it was "living the good life." Whatever the term, North Americans have always yearned for a simpler way. But how do you accomplish that today?

Blending inspiration with practical how-to's, Rural Renaissance captures the American dream of country living for contemporary times. Journey with the authors and experience their lessons, laughter and love for the land as they trade the urban concrete maze for a small organic farm and bed and breakfast, Inn Serendipity, in Wisconsin. Rural living today is a lot more than farming. It's about a creative, nature-based and more self-sufficient lifestyle that combines a love of squash, solar energy, skinny dipping and serendipity.

Among the many topics explored in Rural Renaissance include:

• "right livelihood" and the good life
• organic gardening and permaculture
• renewable energy and energy conservation
• wholesome organic food, safe water and a natural home
• simplicity, frugality and freedom
• green design and recycled materials
• community, friends and raising a family
• independence and interdependence
• wildlife conservation and land stewardship.

An authentic tale of a couple whose pioneering spirit and connection to the land reaches out to both the local and global community, Rural Renaissance will appeal to a wide range of Cultural Creatives, free agents, conservation entrepreneurs and both arm-chair and real life homesteaders, regardless of where they live.

304 pages 7.5 x 9-inch Cultural Studies / Self-Actualization and Self-Help ISBN 0-86571-504-1 US$22.95 / Can$27.95

Rural Renaissance can be ordered through bookstores or for a 30 percent discount off the list price from the on-line store that supports Renewing the Countryside. Your purchase helps support the Rural Renaissance Network program of Renewing the Countryside. Ten percent of the authors' profits from the sales of Rural Renaissance will support the Rural Renaissance Network program.

Kivirist and Ivanko are innkeepers, organic growers, copartners in a marketing consulting company and have previously published books. John is also an award-winning photographer, contributing to national and international publications including Wisconsin Trails, E Magazine, Islands, Parade and Scottish Life. Former advertising agency fast-trackers, they are nationally recognized for their contemporary approach to homesteading, conservation and more sustainable living. They share their farm with their son, two llamas, a flock of free-range chickens, and millions of ladybugs. For more information about Inn Serendipity, visit www.innserendipity.com.