By far the single most important book I have read thus far (and I read a LOT). I have been a vegetarian for over 10 years, after reading this book I'm transitioning into a fully vegan diet and lifestyle. John Robbins artfully illustrates the importance of a plant-based diet to benefit our bodies and our planet. Not 'preachy' as some books can be, Robbins approaches the issues with a barrage of facts and insights that open your eyes.

This book cemented my belief that in order to save ourselves, the planet, and be humane creatures - we have to give up our penchant for eating animal flesh. John Robbins does not preach, he only reveals,(in a very humble manner), the facts as to how we are digging our graves, and endangering the earth when we eat a mainly meat-based diet. This is a guy who gave up the chance to rule the Baskin-Robbins empire because he believes in veganism. He really convinced me to never ever go back to eating without a conscience. If I had the money, I´d buy a whole bunch of copies of his book and hand them out to whoever I met. Buy the book and save yourself, the planet, and especially, save the animals from a horrible existence.

After you begin to read this book you will never look at meat(or animal products) the same way ever again. Animal cruelty is a small part of it, Robbin's opens your eyes to the social, ecological and health implications of consuming animal products.

If the descriptions of so-called modern husbandry don't change your mind about how you eat, the research on meat-eating in terms of your health and its effects on the earth will. Read this book! It's good for you!

If you have ever wonder what it would be like to give up meat and animal bi-products for even a day this is the bok for you. The recipies are delicious and timeless classics. For every day that you live a Vegan or even Vegetarian life style, after reading this book you can be thankful that there is a better way to live. And guess what, a cow will thank you too. :)