One-Straw Revolution Book Evaluation

Emily Lincoln

ENGL102-041

Prof. Melissa Santos

8 April, 2018

The One-Straw Revolution Book Evaluation

In class, we read a book called The One-Straw Revolution by Masanobu Fukuoka. Similarly to the two other books we have read, it is about food and farming. Fukuoka was born and raised on the Japanese Island of Shikoku studying plant pathology and working for several years. At the age of 25, he decided to quit his job, return to home and apply his knowledge to agriculture at home. This book is interesting because the author has more of a spiritual attempt and shows that he has respect and a connection for the environment around him. He expresses how he feels about common methods of farming, how chemicals and pesticides are often used and he feels it it is wrong. Fukuoka shares, “And now look over at the neighbors field for a moment. The weeds have been wiped out by herbicides and cultivation. The soil animals and insects have been exterminated by poison. The soil has been burned clean of organic matter and microorganisms by chemical fertilizers. In the summer, you see farmers at work in fields, wearing gas masks and long rubber gloves.” (Fukuoka 33) The author clearly expresses what he feels is wrong in the practice of farming. It is not natural and it does more harm than good. He believe that human knowledge of farming is misunderstood for intelligent, as they are proving that they are the opposite of that as chemicals are used on the food we eat.

In my opinion, this book is written very strongly and confidently. He provides an ample amount of examples and information to support his beliefs. Fukuoka also shows that he is educated on the the other side of the argument which is important in any opinion. For example, “The most commonly used chemical fertilizers, ammonium sulfate, urea, superphosphate and the like, are used in large amounts, only fractions of which are absorbed by the plants in the field. The rest leaches into streams and rivers, eventually flowing into the Inland Sea. These nitrogen compounds become food for algae and plankton which multiply in great numbers, causing the red tide to appear.” (Fukuoka 82) I strongly believe it is important to always show that you are educated in both sides of an argument when proving a point. Being educated about the statement in which you disagree is just as important as being educated in what you are supporting. The author does a great job of presenting his knowledge in both sides, humbly and maturely. Fukuoka also does a wonderful job of keeping a calm and kind tone throughout the book. This could easily be written angrily as he supports his beliefs but instead he uses knowledge and kindness to express and prove his statements. There is not much weaknesses I picked up throughout the book, but the author could have provided more personal stories. This would help readers get more of a real life feel.

This book would be great for anyone learning about farming or gardening as it shows more of a natural perspective. Fukuoka believes that nature will do it’s thing, and many more farmers need to understand that. The One-Straw Revolution might even be beneficial to those working in factory farms, as it may open their mind to what farming should really be. The author reaches perfection in proving that farming and agriculture are activities where nature should be present. This book could be beneficial to younger children, even though it might be difficult for them to read on their own, they could benefit from listening to it being read to them. It sends a good message and could possible change the way people learn to view and value farming. Overall, The One-Straw Revolution is a wonderful book and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in nature, farming or the outdoors, or just anyone looking to relax and read a good story.