The Reducetarian Solution: How the Surprisingly Simple Act of Reducing the Amount of Meat in Your Diet Can Transform Your Health and the Planet

Kateman, president of the nonprofit Reducetarian Foundation, writes that he launched it in 2014 when he realized that many people, like himself, were committed to eating less meat without becoming card-carrying vegans or vegetarians. That said, reducetarianism includes the latter two groups, and is meant to “unite the growing community of individuals who are committed to eating less meat.” This book is an illuminating collection of 70 brief, pithy essays written by “thought leaders” in the food realm, including authors, researchers, educators, and even a stand-up comedian. Divided into three sections—“Mind,” “Body,” and “Planet”—they cover such diverse topics as the evils and ills of factory farming and the joys of packing tasty vegetarian treats for a child’s lunch. A Buddhism expert presents spiritual arguments for reducing meat consumption; another author describes “food waste” parties where meatless leftovers are served. The bulk of the essays eschew meat-shaming and lean toward baby steps (i.e., meatless Mondays) and non-judgmental attitudes. This eclectic compendium (including recipes) will inspire and educate the curious and reticent, as well as those who are already, in some way, walking the reducetarian path. Agent: Linda Konner, Linda Konner Literary Agency. (Apr.)