The Vegetarian Victoria Library
The following books, videos/DVDs and magazines can be borrowed free of charge by residents of Victoria. The lending period is four weeks and a maximum of three items can be borrowed at any one time. Each item borrowed out requires a $20 deposit which we will refund when the item is returned. You can pick items up directly from the VNV office in Fitzroy or from our regular social events (please notify us first and bring the deposit). Alternatively you can have them mailed out to you (in which case the postage fee will be deducted from the refund of the deposit when you return them).
To make arrangements or for more information on any titles please contact us.
To return borrowed items please post them direct to our office:
Vegetarian Victoria
Suite 6, Level 1, Kindness House
288 Brunswick Street
Fitzroy VIC 3065Alternatively you may drop them in in person, by prior arrangement.
Please note that most titles are also available for purchase through other Australian Vegetarian Societies. (We do not yet have books or DVDs available for sale.) And don't forget to check your local library. Local libraries often have a great selection of books relating to vegetarianism, in particular recipe books.
Magazines
New Vegetarian & Natural Health (Autumn 2000 - Spring 2006)
Natural Health & Vegetarian Life (Summer 2006/07 - current issue)
Published quarterly as a forum through which the message of a healthier and more humane lifestyle can be conveyed.
(Back issues can be purchased from the publisher.)
Vegan Voice (Issue No 2 June-August 2000 - current issue)
A quarterly magazine for those who want to spread the message of respect and love for all life. A totally independent publication, it promotes a non-violent way of living beneficial to the planet, all animals and human health. It also helps provide a platform for like-minded groups and individuals. If you want to stay informed about veganism, animal rights, nutrition, spirituality and environmental issues, Vegan Voice is the magazine for you.
(Back issues can be purchased from the publisher.)
Books
Cooking
365 Plus One Vegan Recipes
Leah Leneman (1993, Thorsons)
A vegan recipe for every day of the year by one of the most
experienced and popular vegan cooks. The recipes are easy to make, use
readily available ingredients, and show just how creative and varied
vegan cooking can be.
Cordon Vert
Colin Spencer (1985, Harper Collins)
Colin Spencer has combined his creativity and experience to
create delicious dinner party menus for every week of the year using the
very best of seasonal ingredients. The finest examples of international
cuisine are included together with exciting and original dishes devised
especially for this book. Wine and cheese suggestions are included to
complement each course.
Easy Vegan Cooking
Leneman, Leah (1998, Harper Collins)
Easy to make, using readily available ingredients, this
delicious collection of recipes shows just how creative and varied vegan
cooking can be. Bursting with ideas for starters, soups, main courses,
side dishes, sweets and salads, it offers a wealth of dairy-free,
meat-free ideas for every occasion.
Ecological Cooking
Joanne Stepaniak & Kathy Hecker (1991, Book Publishing Company)
Delicious and healthy animal-free recipes to help you live
gently on the earth. Vegan gourmets should find new and interesting
ideas, and absolute beginners will get a great start. Contains over 500
recipes.
Herbal Teas
Richard Craze (1998, Quintet)
More than 60 easy recipes for delicious herbal teas. Detailed
descriptions of the origins of diferent herbs and authoritative
information on equipment for infusions and decoctions of herbs.
OXFAM Vegetarian Cooking for Children
Rose Elliot (1995, Random House)
A delicious and imaginative collection of vegetarian recipes for
children, including Easy Cheese Dip With Rainbow Vegetables, to
Broccoli and Sweetcorn Flan and Favourite Ginger Bread Men. A number of
the dishes are suitable for children to cook themselves, with an adult
standing by.
Raw Logic - Better Health With Less Cooking
L. R. Murray (2000, L. R. Murray)
Raw Logic explores an aspect of diet and nutrition that is
seldom discussed - the process of cooking itself. The author reviews
evidence from a wide variety of sciences and argues that cooking - the
application of heat to foodstuffs - both destroys health-giving
constituents and produces new, toxic substances. On the positive side,
the book reveals the many benefits of a raw or nearly raw diet. It gives
advice on moving to a raw diet, and provides information about useful
books, equipment, organisations and websites.
Soy Not Oi!!
Food Not Bombs (2002, Food Not Bombs Melbourne)
A cook book with a political difference! Food Not Bombs is a not
for profit collective that recovers food that would otherwise be
discarded and cooks and serves it to people in immediate need. This cook
book is a mish mash of tasty recipes including those with names such as
Balaclava Baklava, Chaos Pasta and Mad Wog's Mock Feta Tofu Salad.
Squirrels Cooking for Children & Babies
Diana Mitchell, Caryl Himmelmann & Maureen Dutler (1997, Squirrels Australia)
Quick, healthy and fun recipes for children from the famous Squirrels restaurant.
Super Vegetarian Dishes
Vikki Leng (1982, Prendergast McCullouch)
A personal collection of Vikki "The Vego" Leng’s favourite
recipes. Includes special foods for festive occasions and celebrations,
as well as informative handy hints, a glossary and a table of the
seasons of fruits and vegetables.
The (Almost) No Fat Cookbook
Bryanna Clark Grogan (1994, Bryanna Clark Grogan)
Dozens of vegan recipes for conquering your family’s resistance
to healthy, low-fat eating. Includes delicious vegetarian roasts;
low-fat guacamole; healthy, dairy-free, low-fat cheese substitutes;
low-fat vegetarian pancakes and sausage; low-fat Caesar and potato
salads; juicy veggie burgers and low-fat fries; almost-no-fat chocolate
cake and fudge frosting; and low-fat ice cream.
The Artful Vegetarian
Karen Mayer (1988, Greenhouse Publications)
In this book Karen Mayer presents over 150 sensational recipes –
from soups and dips, to salads, main courses, desserts and cakes –
which show that vegetarian food can be creative and delicious, yet also
surprisingly simple to prepare.
The Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook
Joanne Stepaniak (2003, The Book Publishing Company)
Create amazing dairy-free cheese substitutes and classic
"uncheese" dishes. This book is not only for vegans and the lactose
intolerant, but for anyone who loves cheese dishes (but not their high
fat and cholesterol content). The Uncheese Cookbook proves you don’t
have to give up the flavour of cheese when you give up dairy foods.
The Single Vegan
Leah Leneman (1989, Leah Leneman)
A mouth-watering selection of quick and easy-to-prepare vegan
menus, all suitable for one person. Savour the delights of Smoked Tofu a
la King, Vegetable Pilau Special, Jambalaya or Nutty Plum Crumble.
Includes weekly shopping lists, lists of staple foods to keep handy in
the cupboard, and seasonal menus to make the most of cheaper
ingredients.
The Vegan Cookbook
Alan Wakeman & Gordon Baskerville (1996, Faber and Faber Ltd)
This cookbook offers more that an authentic cuisine – it
proffers a way of life based on compassion for all living things. But
gourmets will also find delights here among over 200 recipes ranging
from the everyday to the celebratory. Demonstrates that a vegan diet can
be rich, varied, luxurious and reach the highest culinary standards.
The Vegan Kitchen Mate
Compiled by David Horton (1997, Vegan Society of NSW)
More than 100 recipes for beginners through to advanced cooks,
interspersed with handy hints for managing a kitchen. It’s vegan so no
animal products of any kind are used. It covers all the basics very well
and is ideal for those starting out on a vegan diet.
The Vegetarian Vitality Cookbook
Judy Ridgway (1993, Thorsons)
Over 150 delicious vegetarian recipes, packed with vital
vitamins and minerals, and full of flavour. The recipes are high in
fibre, low in fat, are quick and easy to prepare, and aim to leave you
full of natural energy.
Vegetarian
Rosamond Richardson (1997, George Weidenfeld & Nicolson)
The 12 recipes in this booklet, from American, French, Italian,
Chinese, North African and Mexican cuisines, demonstrate how vegetarian
dishes can be as beautiful to look at as they are delicious - and
healthy - to eat.
Vegetarian Barbecues
Sue Ashworth (1995, Paragon Press)
30 mouth-watering dishes with specially commissioned
step-by-step photos for each recipe. Designed to make barbecues easy and
delicious. Surprise your friends with the versatility of vegetarian
foods. Includes recipes for accompanying dips, salads, breads and other
items.
Vegetarian Cooking for People with Diabetes
Patricia Le Shane (1994, The Book Publishing Company)
Here is a vegan cookbook for people with diabetes who want to
add a new dimension to their diet. The emphasis is not on what you must
do without, but on the wide range of wonderful foods that can open a
whole new world of cooking and eating enjoyment.
Vegetarian Microwave Cookbook
Sarah Brown (1987, Doubleday Australia)
An inspiring cookbook and practical reference guide combined,
this book sets out to explane microwave cooking techniques and how they
relate to a healthy vegetarian diet. It provides a fully illustrated
visual identification guide to the essential vegetarian ingredients with
advice on how to cook them and their recommended cooking times.
These methods are put into practice in the broad-ranging and
beautifully illustrated recipe section, where Sarah Brown has developed
more than 100 delicious dishes especially for the microwave.
Veg-Express, Fast Food for Full Tilt Vegetarians
Chris & Christine Lehmann (1995, CJ & CF Lehmann)
100 great super-fast meal ideas for fast-living vegetarians.
Veg-Express saves time with prepared shopping lists, and includes tips
on where to find vegetarian fast foods, and specific products you can
turn into fantastic fast meals.
10 Day De-Stress Plan
Leslie Kenton (1994, Random House Canada)
This easy-to-follow ten-day plan can help you learn to master
stress with a minimum of fuss and a maximum of pleasure. Using dietary
change, self-awareness, the breath, deep relaxation and other techniques
for rebalancing the nervous system, you can start now to make stress a
friend forever.
A Vegetarian Sourcebook. The Nutrition, Ecology, and Ethics of a Natural Foods Diet
Keith Akers (intro. By Peter Singer) (1993, GP Putnams Sons)
An excellent guide to the "why" of a vegetarian diet – the
nutrition, ecology and ethics of a natural foods diet. This book
explains the vegetarian diet from the point of view of science,
medicine, ecology, world hunger, compassion and religion.
The China Study: Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss and Long-term Health
T. Colin Campbell & Thomas M. Campbell II (2006, Benbella Books)
The China Study is the most comprehensive study of health and nutrition ever conducted. It presents a clear
and concise message of hope as it dispels a multitude of health myths and misinformation: if you want to be
healthy, change your diet.
Cholesterol Management
Dr David Phillips (1989, Pythagorean Press)
A concise little guide on cholesterol presented in 3 parts: The Problem, Harmful Habits, and The Solution.
Eat More, Weigh Less
Dean Ornish, MD (1993, Harper Collins)
This book outlines a life choice program for losing weight
safely while eating abundantly. It includes exercise routines, stress
control techniques, and 250 recipes for gourmet meals containing less
than 10% fat.
Fit for Life
Diamond, Harvey and Marilyn (1996, Harper Collins)
Fit for Life crushes orthodox medical dogma about the basic four food groups and debunks myths about the
importance of milk and protein in the diet. It is a simple, natural eating program that shows you how to
exploit your body's instincts for food, and teaches you how to eat in accordance with your natural digestive
cycles.
Food for Life
Barnard, Neal (1993, Crown Trade Paperbacks)
In Food for Life, Dr. Neal Barnard makes a powerful and
persuasive case for why you may wish to change your diet. He offers
detailed, practical guidance on state-of-the-art healthful eating, and a
complete 21-day program to help make the transition. Dr. Neal Barnard
has been a leader in educating people about the health benefits of
improving their diets.
Good Health in the 21st Century
Carole Hungerford (2006, Scribe)
An encyclopaedic health guide that provides an extraordinary amount of easily understood information and a
radically different way of maintaining well-being. Rejecting the routine cocktails of medication, with their
complicated interactions and side effects, Dr Hungerford shows how to provide a chance for minerals, vitamins,
and essential fatty acids to do their health-giving work.
The Health Revolution
Horne, Ross (1984, Happy Landings)
Stress, anxiety, alchoholism, drug problems, depression, crime and sickness - unknown in primitive societies -
confound our lives. You can eliminate disease from your life in an amazingly short time. Your body has
incredible recuperative powers once freed of the harmful influences of our "civilized" lifestyle.
In Defence of Food
Michael Pollan (2008, Penguin Group
Australia)
Humans used to know how to eat well, but the balanced dietary
lessons that were once passed down through the generations have become
confused, complicated and distorted by food industry marketers,
nutritional scientists and journalists, all of whom have much to gain
from our dietary confusion.
As a result we face today a complex culinary landscape dense
with bad advice and foods that are not "real". These
"edible food-like substances" are often packaged with labels
bearing health claims that are typically false and misleading.
Indeed, real food is fast disappearing from the marketplace, to
be replaced by "nutrients", and plain old eating has been replaced by an
obsession with nutrition that is, paradoxically, ruining our health,
not to mention our meals. It seems that we have forgotten about the
sheer pleasure that can come from eating simple, healthy and, most
importantly, real food. In Defense of Food is a practical call to action
- a bracing and eloquent manifesto that will enrich our lives and our
palates, and enlarge our sense of what it means to be healthy and happy.
Mother, Baby & Toddler Book
Rose Elliot (1996, Harper Collins)
A complete, sensible and deeply reassuring handbook for
mothers-to-be, and those caring for a vegetarian child. This book
provides all the information you need to know about nutrition before
conception, during pregnancy and after birth, and gives a comprehensive
and well-balanced range of recipes for you and your baby up to the age
of two.
Nutritional Values of Australian Foods
National Food Authority (1991, Australian Government Publishing)
Provides up-to-date nutrient composition data on hundreds of
Australian foods. The values for 24 nutrients are outlined, including
protein, fat, carbohydrate, fibre, cholesterol, sodium, calcium, iron
and zinc.
Plant Based Nutrition and Health
Stephen Walsh PhD (2003, The Vegan Society)
Research shows that vegetarians live longer than the general
population, but the full potential of plant foods is still largely
untapped.
Whether you wish to follow a wholly plant-based diet or simply
to improve your current diet, how you go about it is crucial. The right
choices can add ten years of healthy life.
This book gives clear advice based on sound science, cutting through confusing messages promoted by vested interests.
Plant Roots
Rex Bowlby (2003, Outside the Box Publishing)
Plant Roots shows us how we came to center our diet on meat,
dairy, and eggs, why we shouldn't be eating them, and how we can get
back to our...plant roots.
"Just give me the facts - and Rex Bowlby does, with this
thorough, well-organized, fully-referenced explanation of the miraculous
benefits of a plant-food based diet for you and for the whole human
race. After reading Plant Roots only the most bullheaded will fail to be
changed to healthier food choices. This book will have a permanent
place on my library shelf."
- John McDougall, M.D., Author and Medical Director - McDougall Residential Program.
Pregnancy, Children and the Vegan Diet
Michael Klaper, MD (1997, Gentle World Inc)
A wealth of information and dieting hints for pregnant and
lactating women, plus sound nutrition for infants and children. Covers
all major nutritional aspects of the vegan diet and includes recipes and
menu plans.
Recommended Dietary Intakes for Use in Australia
National Health & Medical Research Council (1992, Australian Government Publishing Service)
This booklet outlines the levels of intake of essential
nutrients that are required to meet our nutritional needs. Includes
background information on each nutrient and covers the varying
requirements of different age and sex categories.
Reclaiming Our Health
John Robbins (1998, H J Kramer Inc.)
In this book John Robbins calls for nothing short of a
revolution in the basic beliefs on which health care is based. He
convincingly demonstrates the enormous human and financial costs of the
polarisation of conventional and alternative medicine. Practical
solutions, for us as individuals as well as for the health care system,
are also provided.
The Gradual Vegetarian
Lisa Tracy (1985, Century Hitchinson)
For everyone finally ready to make the change...
The Gradual Vegetarian is a comprehensive How To book helping
you to accomplish being a vegetarian in three easy stages. There are no
hard and fast rules, no draconian measures and each person leaves each
stage when ready. This publication includes over 200 recipes, including
many specially designed for those with meat eating families.
Vegan Nutrition
Gill Langley, PhD (1995, Vegan Society UK)
A readable and comprehensive analysis of research on vegan
nutrition that is also suitable for vegetarians. Chapters include
protein and energy, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, vegan
mothers and children, milk and health, the general health of vegans, and
vegan diets as therapy. This is a highly recommended reference. You’ll
want to buy a copy!
Vegan Nutrition: A Survey of Research
Gill Langley, PhD (1988, Vegan Society UK)
The most comprehensive survey ever undertaken on vegan diets (more than 180 references cited), Vegan Nutrition
will appeal to nutritionists, dietitians, general practitioners, community health workers, researchers, vegans
and would-be vegans.
Vegetarian Baby, A Sensible Guide for Parents
Sharon Yntema (1991, McBooks Press)
A reassuring source book for parents who want to raise a
healthy, happy baby on a nutritionally complete vegetarian diet. The
book is filled with essential nutritional information for the growing
child. Ms Yntema shares a great many recipes and discusses all types of
vegetarian diets.
Vegetarian Children
Sharon Yntema (1995, McBooks Press)
In this practical and inspiring book, Sharon Yntema helps
parents guide their kids to healthful, happy dietary choices. The author
uses careful common sense and the wisdom of her own experience, as well
as that of other vegetarian parents, to cover development issues, the
pressures kids face from friends, the introduction of new foods, and the
busy family’s approach to making quick, appetising meals.
Vegetarian Pregnancy
Sharon Yntema (1994, McBooks Press)
This book is a thorough, sensible and trustworthy guide for
women who want to enjoy a healthy pregnancy on a vegetarian diet. By
combining stories from her own experience and those of other mothers
with the latest nutritional research, Sharon Yntema provides a complete,
up-to-date resource to support the pregnant woman who chooses to be
vegetarian. The definitive guide to having a healthy baby.
Your Heart, Your Planet
Diamond, Harvey (1990, The Pythagorean Press)
Our precious gift of life is threatened by destructive forces... some obvious and personal, some hidden and
universal. From cardiovascular disease to our escalating environmental stresses... from poisons in our food to
pollution of our air and water... we are gambling with our extinction! In this breakthrough book, Harvey
Diamond reveals the full extent of the problem and offers a simple "10 per cent solution" - that is truly
lifesaving.
A-Z of Animal Rights Issues
VeganWise (2000, Animal Rights Workshops)
An activist’s and beginner’s reference book in an A-Z style.
With a handy cross-referenced index, this book covers many subjects and
issues on animal rights, and related environmental and health issues.
The content of this book has been the subject matter of a series of
animal rights workshops held in Sydney this year.
America's Endangered Wildlife
Carol & David Hovland (1972, Tower Publications)
Every living thing plays a part in the world's interdependent
ecology, so eliminating a species may have unexpected effects on man
himself. This dramatic new book discusses the tragedy of the complete
disappearance from America of various species and of those species that
are endangered and near extinction.
Animal Liberation
Peter Singer (1991, Harper Collins)
Animal Liberation was the first modern work to argue that those
who oppose human suffering must also oppose the suffering inflicted on
animals. To make this point Peter Singer describes in stark detail the
unjustified pain suffered by animals in scientific, military and
commercial research and the inhuman process which "meat" goes through
before it reaches consumers as well as the shameful waste this involves.
Australian Animal Protection Law Journal
Mancy, John, ed. (2008, Legal Bulletin Service)
This publication is intended to be a forum for principled consideration and spirited discussion of the issues
of law and fact affecting the lives of non-human animals.
Beyond Beef
Jeremy Rifkin (1993, Plume)
Taking us from ancient Sumer to the Dickensian disassembly lines of Chicago's stockyards, Jeremy Rifkin
interweaves anthropology, sociology, economics, and ecology in a brilliant and scathing examination and
indictment of the cattle culture that has come to shape and warp our world. This persuasive and passionate
book is for the 1990s what Silent Spring was for an earlier decade - an urgent warning to everyone who cares
about the fate of the earth.
But You Kill Ants
John Waddell (2004, John Waddell)
This is a concise and informative little book that answers 100
of the most common arguments against vegetarian and vegan lifestyles.
From the genuinely concerned to the simply silly, this book takes you
through almost all the questions you’ve ever been or ever will be asked
as a vegetarian or vegan. A must read for anyone finding it difficult to
address arguments ranging from ‘it’s natural for humans to eat meat’ to
‘fish don’t feel pain.’ We give this one a hearty recommendation.
Compassion, The Ultimate Ethic. An Exploration of Veganism
Victoria Moran (1997, The American Vegan Society)
An exploration of veganism. Examines why people are turning to
this compassionate way of living and the difference it is making in
their lives. Includes information on nutrition, raising children and
weight reduction.
Committed: A Rabble-Rouser's Memoir
Dan Mathews (2007, Atria Books)
Committed is a bold, offbeat, globe-trotting memoir that shows
how the most ridiculed punching bag in high school became an
internationally renowned crusader for the most downtrodden individuals
of all - animals. This irresistibly entertaining book recounts the
random incidents and soul-searching that inspired a reluctant party boy
to devote his life to a cause, without ever abandoning his sense of
mischief and fun. As the irreverent force behind the colorful crusades
carried out by PETA, Mathews has strutted naked before a fur convention
in Tokyo, halted GM's use of animals in crash tests by storming the
carmaker's float in the Rose Parade dressed as a rabbit, and crashed a
fashion show in Milan dressed as a priest. With self-deprecating wit and
candor, Mathews reveals all the edgy details of his unorthodox
coming-of-age and equally outrageous career.
Diet for a Gentle World. Eating with Conscience.
Les Inglis (1993, Paragon Press)
Diet for a Gentle World looks at how animal-based food
consumption is hazardous to our health, how insensitive the animal
industry is to the animals it processes, and provides a startling
picture of the devastation being inflicted on the environment. But Les
Inglis goes beyond just examining the problems; he offers many
practical, inexpensive, and simple solutions that anyone can follow.
Diet for a New America
John Robbins (1987, Stillpoint Publishing)
How your food choices affect your health, happiness and the
future of life on earth. Details the medical, environmental and
compassionate reasons for reducing our animal food intake. A best
selling classic.
Diet for a New World
John Robbins (1993, Avon Books)
Author John Robbins takes us a giant leap forward, offering
specific guidelines for ensuring the continued good health and wellbeing
of our planet and all its inhabitants - while tantalizing our tastebuds
with over 200 delicious "Earth-friendly" recipes.
Eternal Treblinka. Our Treatment of Animals and the Holocaust.
Charles Patterson (2002, Lantern Books)
Isaac Bashevis Singer first suggested that "for the animals, it
is an eternal Treblinka." In this book Charles Patterson expands on that
analogy, comparing the abuse of animals with the Holocaust. Patterson's
analysis is straightforward: he does not base his analysis on a claim
of moral equivalence between the Holocaust and factory farms, but rather
on a factual connection. Patterson postulates that the techniques,
knowledge, attitudes, and experience gained in the human exploitation of
animals were instrumental not only in the Holocaust, but in a broader
sense were instrumental toward all kinds of exploitation of humans,
including war, slavery, and colonialism.
Ethical Eating: How to Make Food Choices that Won't Cost the Earth
Crocombe, Angela (2008, Penguin Books)
Ethical Eating explores the ethical and environmental implications of the food choices we make, looking at the
issues from a uniquely Australian perspective. Angela Crocombe examines the pros and cons of modern-day
farming methods, and of the highly processed "pseudo-foods" now so prevelant in our society, and considers
alternatives that use more natural and humane systems of production.
Exploding a Myth: Questions and Answers on Vivisection
Australian Association for Humane Research (1988, self-published)
This short booket is designed to help those who seriously question the validity of animal experimentation to
answer the most commonly asked question. The booklet concentrates on the question of whether or not
vivisection has advanced medical science.
Food for a Future. How world hunger could be ended by the twenty-first century.
John Wynne-Tyson (1988, Thorsons Publishers Ltd)
This classic work outlines the case for a more responsible and
humane attitude towards our food resources. John Wynne-Tyson shows that
to move away from an animal-based diet seems unavoidable as no sound
nutritional, medical or social justification exists for ignoring the
fact that pressures on the world’s resources demand more responsible
feeding patterns.
Food: Need, Greed & Myopia. Exploitation and Starvation in a World of Plenty
Geoffrey Yates (1996, Earthright Publications)
This wide-ranging book looks at the world food problem from a
vegetarian point of view. The author considers many aspects – world
population growth, food production, agriculture and land use, nutrition –
and the ecological, economic, social, ethical and political
implications. The book is thought-provoking, designed to stimulate
consideration of the problems facing the world. It challenges many
assumptions about the problems and suggests alternative approaches.
Happier Meals, Rethinking the Global Meat Industry
Danielle Nierenberg (2005, Worldwatch Industry)
As livestock numbers grow, our relationship with these animals
and their meat is changing. Most of us don't know - or choose not to
know - how meat is made. But meat production has come a long way since
the origins of animal domestication. In a very short period, raising
livestock has morphed into an industrial endeavor that bears little
relation to the landscape or to the natural tendencies of the animals.
Here’s Harmlessness, An Anthology of Ahimsa
The American Vegan Society (1993, The American Vegan Society)
A masterwork about non-violent living. Covers harmlessness in
diet, clothing and personal health; peace and inner harmony; our
responsibilities to ourselves, fellow humans and other animals; respect
and care for the planet and its resources; sustainable veganic
agriculture; etc. Included between the chapters are inspiring and
instructive quotations.
How are we to Live? Ethics in an age of self-interest.
Peter Singer (1993, Text Publishing)
In this book Peter Singer suggests that people who take an
ethical approach to life often escape from the trap of meaningless,
finding a deeper satisfaction in what they are doing than do people
whose goals are narrower and more self-centred. He spells out what he
means by an ethical approach to life, and shows that it can bring about
significant and far-reaching changes to one’s life.
Humane Education
Helena Pederson (2002, Swedish Fund for Research Without Animals)
This documentary study deals with animal experimentation as a
teaching and learning method from educational perspectives, student
perspectives, and animal and sustainability perspectives.
Kangaroos: Myths and Realities
David Croft & Maryland Wilson (2005, Australian Wildlife Protection Council)
This book brings together esteemed scientists and animal
advoctes, to argue that the kangaroo is not in fact a pest. If this is
indeed the case, how then will we Australians continue to justify their
slaughter? Perhaps we will simply transfer the kangaroo from the
category of "pest" to that of "food".
The New Why You Don't Need Meat
Peter Cox (1992, Blumesbury)
A UK bestseller, this book investigates some of the same shocking conditions that made Fast Food Nation and
Dominion such important and groundbreaking works. It presents an evidence-based, comprehensive overview of the
link between disease and consumption of animal products. It covers many areas, including Mad Cow Disease and
the Seventh Day Adventists.
The Price of Meat. Salmonella, Listeria, Mad Cows - What's Next?
Danny Penman (1996, Gollancz)
Animals reared for the table no longer live in the rural utopia
depicted by ad execs on food packaging. Over the last 50 years the meat
industry has changed beyond recognition, the only goal increased output
for less cost and never mind the consequences. The BSE crisis has
offered a glimpse of how little the meat industry cares - either for the
health of the consumer or for the welfare of farm animals. 'Mad cow'
disease was caused when vegetarian animals were turned into meat eaters
and cannibals. But this is only one feature of farming that the industry
is keen to hide. Hard-hitting, revealing and deeply unsettling, The
Price of Meat takes the meat industry apart, exploring the issues and
examining cruelty-free alternatives, and offering insight into the
philosophy of animal rights, the driving force behind one of the fastest
growing reform movements in the world.
Save the Animals, 101 Easy Things You Can Do
Ingrid Newkirk (1991, Collins Angus & Robertson)
This practical guide is for everybody who wants to stop cruelty
to animals. It provides the facts about 50 problems of animal abuse,
giving the solution to each problem and outlines over 100 ways in which
we can help combat the exploitation of animals.
The Silent Ark
Juliet Gellatley & Tony Wardle (1996, Thorsons)
A chilling expose of the meat industry. This book exposes the
political protection, misinformation and PR glitz which have propped up
the all-powerful meat culture. Includes the facts behind the BSE
scandal. Highly recommended reading.
Understanding Animals
Nanditha Krishna (1990, CPR Envirnomental Edicatuon Centre madrass)
This is a children's drawing book, aiming to educate children
about the realities of animal cruelty with an enjoyable activity.
Vegan, The New Ethics of Eating
Erik Marcus (1998, Mc Books)
This book shows why a change in what you eat can be so simple
and yet so significant. Examines the health, ethical and environmental
issues surrounding food choices through the work of eight featured
experts.
(This book can also be downloaded from the internet from www.vegan.com/resources/books/Vegan.pdf.)
When Elephants Weep. The Emotional Lives of Animals.
Jeffrey Masson & Susan McCarthy (1996, Random House)
For more than 100 years, scientists have denied that animals
experience emotions, yet this remarkable and ground-breaking book proves
what animal lovers have long known to be true: animals and many other
creatures exhibit all kinds of feelings. This book presents a powerful
case for re-examining our entire relationship with the animal world.
The Animal Kingdom, A Spiritual Perspective
Alice Bailey & Master Djwhal Khul (2005, Lucis Publishing Company)
This book explains the divine purpose of our association with domesticated animals, and the important role
humanity has to play in their evolution. The service humanity is to render is that of producing unity,
harmony, and beauty in nature, through blending into one functioning, related unity the soul in all forms.
Animal Theology
Andrew Linzey (1995, University of Illinois Press)
Animal rights is animal theology in Andrew Linzey’s view. This
book, based on a series of lectures given to the theology faculty at
Oxford University, is a carefully prepared and argued discussion of the
theology of animal rights in which the author takes the community of
faith to task for its blindness to the centrality, within the Christian
tradition, of duty to animals. He argues that contemporary agribusiness,
based on the commodification of animals, is immoral and theologically
indefensible. Particularly damning are the chapters on scientific
experimentation, hunting for sport, meat-eating and genetic engineering.
Lindsay is an important, pioneering, Christian voice speaking for those
who cannot speak for themselves.
An Intelligent Man's Guide to Buddhism
B. A. Kausalyayan (1995, Buddha Bhoomi Prakashan)
A foray into Buddhism in the form of questions and answers,
outlining the main principles relating to moderation, non-violence,
wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.
A Simple Diet, A Spectacular Plan
Ellen White (1979, Glenn D Toppenberg)
An extensive compilation of quotes from Seventh-Day Adventist
Church founder Ellen White, outlining the health principles of
vegetarianism from a Christian perspective.
Bhagavad-Gita as it is
Andrew Linzey & Bhaktivedanta Pranhupada (2004, Bhaktivedanta Book Trust)
The Bhagavad-gita is universally renowned as the jewel of
India's spiritual wisdom. Spoken by Lord Sri Krisna, the Supreme
Personality of the Godhead, to His intimate devotee Arjuna, the Gita's
seven hundred concise verses provide a definite guide to the science of
self-realization.
How to Live without Fear and Worry
K. Sri Dhammananda (1989, BMS Publications, Malaysia)
The work, has remained a perennial favourite of readers all over
the world. The learned Prelate discusses issues relating to Buddhism
and problems of the work-a-day world, imparting practical wisdom.
Getting rid of fear and worry and the pursuit of happiness are goals of
all human beings irrespective of caste, creed or race. The Venerable
author, eloquently advocates methods to overcome these.
Introduction to True Buddha School
Sheng-Yen Lu (2000, True Buddha Publications)
Summarises the principles of Buddhism as taught by the author in
his famous True Buddha School, with the intention of educating people
toward achieving enlightenment.
Suma Ching Hai News (No 77)
Suma Ching Hai (1997, Suma Ching Hai)
Magazine from the Suma Ching Hai International Association,
focused around the author's teachings of "Quan Yin Method", a "Method of
Meditation on The Inner Light and Sound", geared toward
self-discipline, non-violence, and ethical living.
The Circle of Creation. Animals in the Light of the Bible.
John Eaton (1995, SCM Press)
John Eaton, a distinguished Old Testament scholar, finds that in
the Bible there is the ideal of a loving community of all the species
as fundamental to God’s eternal purpose. There is the understanding of
the present world as fallen from God’s ideal, but still restrained and
guided in respect of animals by sacred laws. And there is the prophetic
vision that the ideal will, by God’s action, at last be achieved.
The Confucius Mencius Morality Society Inc.
Australia (Nationwide) I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc. (2003/4, self-published)
A guide to the principles of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and
spiritualism in general. Includes extended comics depicting the lives of
philosophers Confucius and Mencius, sutra scripts in Chinese, and
several vegetarian recipes.
The Great Tao and You
I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc. (date unknown, self-published)
This booklet provides an understanding of Tao, the natural order
of the Universe, describing the ethical implications and emphasising
its importance in today's fast-paced, materialistic world.
The Higher Taste
Bhaktivedanta Pranhupada (1991, Bhaktivedanta Book Trust)
A practical guide to the exciting new world of gourmet
vegetarian cooking... for a higher purpose. Discover the health and
economic advantages, as well as important ethical and spiritual
considerations, of this eco-friendly approach to diet and nutrition.
The Key of Immediate Elightenment
Supreme Master Ching Hai (1994, The Supreme Master Ching Hai Publishing Association)
A guide to the teachings of the Suma Ching Hai, founder of the
"Quan Yin Method" of meditation. Geared toward making spiritual
enlightenment accessable to everyone.
The Principle Source of the Five Worldly Religions
Australia (Nationwide) I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc. (date unknown, self-published)
A brief summary of the teachings of Confucianism, Taoism,
Buddhism, Christianity and Islam, combining them to lead humans toward a
state of universal peace.
The Science of Self-Realisation
L. H. Longergan (1977, Bhaktivedanta Book Trust)
A very comprehensive collection of interviews, lectures, essays,
and letters, focussing on the practice of meditation and yoga in the
modern age. Includes a guide to choosing a guru, a comparison of Krishna
and Christ, discussions on karma, re-incarnation, superconsciousness,
the purpose of humankind, spiritual solutions to today's world issues,
and more.
The Teachings of Confucius: The Eight Virtues
Australia (Nationwide) I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc. (2003/4, self-published)
Briefly summarises the principles taught by Confucius, emphasising peace, love, respect and obedience.
The Unfolding Truth of Man and the Universe plus Vegetarian Recipes
S. H. Lorna Wong (2003/4, Australia (Nationwide) I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc.)
A short treatise on the relationship between vegetarianism, the
purpose of humankind, and spirituality in the context of the "five
worldly religions".
The Way to Heaven
Australia (Nationwide) I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc. (date unknown, self-published)
A very short booklet answering several common questions relating to Tao and spirituality in general.
The Wheel of Health
L. H. Longergan (1976, Leaves of Autumn)
A comprehensive guide to the health- and nutrition-related
concepts of a vegetarian diet, in the context of the teachings of the
Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Vegetarianism, The perfect way to a healthy & peaceful life
Australia (Nationwide) I-Kuan Tao Headquarters Inc. (date unknown, Kowah Publishing)
This book, produced by the Confucius Mencius Morality Society,
makes the health-related case for vegetarianism, describing nutrition,
physiology and spirituality.
What Buddhists Believe
K. Sri Dhammananda (1993, Buddha Education Foundation)
An extensive guide to fundamental Buddhist thought, written from
a Theravada Buddhist perspective. Topics include the life of Buddha,
the theory and practice of Buddhism, and a sociological and humanitarian
perspective on the role of Buddhism.
A Dog in Your Family
Alicia Kennedy (1999, Oxford)
The benefits of dog ownership don't come automatically. While
your dog can bring you and your family many rewards, you need to know
how to make this happen. A Dog in Your Family tells you how to develop a
healthy, productive relationship with your dog. Veterinarian Alicia
Kennedy draws on years of experience to bring you this practical and
engaging guide to training a socially acceptable and well-behaved canine
companion.
Code Green
Lonely Planet (2006, Lonely Planet)
Code Green offers ideas for the conscientious traveller to contribute to a new kind of travel culture. One
where the place you visit benefits from your presence, whether because of money being directed to the right
people, or because you're visiting to help in some way. It also offers insights into how to make your travel
truly unique.
Campaign Against Cruelty
An Activist's Handbook
Alex Bouke and Ronny Wolsey (2001, Scamp Media)
A concise and inspiring guide to animal activism with chapters
on adopting a vegetarian/vegan diet, setting up groups, campaigning,
proselytising, fundraising, publishing, legal considerations and
positive representation in the media. While Campaign Against Cruelty
specifically addresses UK conditions, many of its suggestions are
applicable here in Australia.
Vegetarian Network Victoria rates a mention as a recommended Australian group.
Energy in the Red
Jacqueline Finch (1995, McPherson’s Printing Group)
“Chronic Fatigue Syndrome affects approximately 40 in 100,000
people internationally. It affects both men and women. It can affect
children as young as six and the elderly, however, most peole contract
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome between the ages of 20 to 40 years of age. The
average duration of the illness is 7.9 years, though a significant numer
recover in under two to three years. Between 15,000 and 30,000
Australians contract Chronic Fatigue Syndrome each year.” - Prof. D.
Wakefield.
The Essential Guide to Prescription Drugs
James & Rybacki Long (1998, Harper Collins)
The Essential Guide to Prescription Drugs provides more detailed
and comprehensive information on the most important drugs in current
use than any other reference source available to the general public. It
includes suggestions for how consumers can lower their prescription
costs and other medical expenses as well as tips for how pharmacists and
physicians can control medical costs, making it a resource doctors,
pharmacists and other health care professionals will want to consult as
well.
That's Why We Don't Eat Animals
Roth, Ruby (2009, North Atlantic Books)
This is a powerful and important children's book. Farm animals
have emotions similar to our pets and this is conveyed in Roth's
enchanting illustrations. A refreshing, sympathetic and attractive book
that children are smart enough to understand, embrace, and grow up a
little by reading.
Tread Lightly, A Guide to Travelling Green
Robin Stewart (2005, Black Inc)
In Tread Lightly, Robin helps you decide what to take, where to
stay and how best to dispose of waste. She discusses, eco-resorts,
energy use, water purification and travelling with pets, as well as how
to stay safe and healthy while you travel.
The Truth about the Drug Companies
Marcier Angell (2005, Scribe Publications)
During her two decades at The New England Journal of Medicine,
Dr. Angell gained extraordinary insight into the truth about the drug
companies. She watched them stray from their original mission of
developing useful drugs and instead become vast and highly profitable
marketing machines with sometimes dubious products. By focusing on
hugely successful drugs, Dr Angell demonstrates exactly ow new products
are brought to market, and argues that the pharmaceutical industry needs
to be saved from itself. She proposes a program of vital reforms, which
include restoring impartiality to clinical research, and severing the
ties between drug companies and medical education.
The Vegan Guide to Melbourne
Zalan Glen (1994, self-published)
A handy reference book for locals, interstate and international
travellers, particularly vegans and anyone else interested in natural
health, ethical eating and good food, also as a record of the changing
face of veganism in Melbourne.
Vegetarian Visitor - Where to Stay and Eat in Great Britain
(2005-2010 editions)
A guide to guest houses, hotels and private homes in England,
Wales and Scotland offering hospitality to the vegetarian and vegan
traveller, with cafes, restaurants and pubs serving vegetarian/vegan
food. Contains more than 300 entries.
Vegetarianism in Australia - 1788 to 1948
A cultural and social history
Edgar Crook (2006, Lulu.com)
This book gives an alternative view of the traditional
Australian dietary culture, which is normally seen as solely reliant on
the barbeque and meat pie. Beginning in 1788 it tells the history of the
Australian Vegetarian movement and the personalities within it that
attempted to convert a society founded on a promise of 'meat three times
a day'. Through an analysis of literature and newspapers it examines
how the diet became part of an artistic and cultural battle for
Australian identity in the late 19th century that was waged in novels,
poetry and popular journals. The growth of the health and natural food
movement from the 1920s onwards is detailed and the influence and
development in Australia of religious and temperance movements that
promoted vegetarianism are also discussed.
Why Animal Experiments Must Stop
Vernon Coleman (1991, Greenprint)
Dr Coleman's book is the most damning indictment of vivisection
ever published. He analyses all the pro-vivisection arguments one by one
- and destroys them. He shows how animal experiments produce
dangerously misleading information, thereby endangering human health,
and how scientists, medics and pharmaceutical manufacturers collude to
protect a practice that has as much relevance to science as alchemy. The
book also describes alternatives to animal experiments.
Zapped! Irradiation and the Death of Food
Wenonah Hauter & Mark Worth (2008, Food & Water Watch)
Despite a half-century of research, experimentation, promotion, and test marketing - much of which was
unwittingly paid for by U.S. taxpayers - food irradiation has proven to be an unrealistic solution to our
national food safety challenges. Consumers should not be exposed to the toxological and nutritional risks that
irradiation poses. Scientists have known about the potential hazards since the early days of the technology in
the 1950s and more problems have revealed themselves over the decades of research.
Video's / DVD's / Cd's
A Diet for All Reasons (VHS)
Michael Klaper, MD (1992, Paulette Eisen)
Top nutritionist, Dr Michael Klaper, shows you how and why the
food you eat today may lead to many degenerative diseases. Essential
viewing!
Australia's Intensive Pig Industry
Animals Australia (2005, self-published)
Pigs are sensitive, curious and affectionate animals. The vast
majority of Australians who purchase pork, bacon and ham are unaware of
what these intelligent animals endure. This CD-ROM contains still
photographs and video footage of how pigs are bred and housed in
Australia's intensive pig industry, including footage on the life of the
breeding sow and the 'nursery'. The CD-ROM also includes a short film
on Bella, a piglet rescued from an intensive piggery who has become the
ambassador for Animals Australia's 'Save Babe' campaign.
Earthlings
Shaun Monson (2006, NationEarth)
Shaun Monson has hung society's dirty laundry out on the line,
and the sight isn't pretty. In fact, most people will find it difficult
to watch many of the scenes in his gripping documentary Earthlings.
Monson has gathered 95 minutes of footage that indicts all of us for
permitting the abominable treatment of animals that "live" among us.
With many scenes captured by hidden cameras, the film chronicles the
cruelty perpetrated by society in its quest for food, clothing,
entertainment, and scientific research. An excellent documentary. Highly
recommended.
Food Without Fear (VHS)
Vegetarian Society, UK (1989, self-published)
An entertaining, powerful and sometimes disturbing programme
which dissects the reality of meat eating and its implications for
animals, the individual, society at large and the global environment.
Henry: One Man’s Way (VHS)
Peter Singer & John Swindells (1997, Peter Singer)
Henry Spira has been the most effective animal rights activists
of the past 20 years. Admired and respected, not only by his supporters,
but also many of his opponents, Henry has chosen to build bridges
rather than hurl abuse. His success, without any large organisation
behind him, is proof that one person can make a difference. This video
shows how he did it, and allows him to reflect on a lifetime of social
activism.
Hidden Crimes (VHS)
Supress, Inc (1986, Suppress Inc.)
The breakthrough film that affords you a glimpse into a world
you were never meant to see: the hidden world of animal experimentation.
Learn to Make a Difference
PETA (2005, PETA)
Sit back and listen as PETA pros share tips and advice on how to
turn our compassion for animals into action. Empasizing the power of
one, this series details the simple steps that you can take, no matter
what your age, income or experience, to help animals in your community
every day. From the comfort of your own home to an on-camera interview,
you can be a powerful voice for animals - and we'll show you how!
Paul McCartney and Friends PETA Concert
PETA (2001, PETA)
Paul McCartney gives a rare live performance at PETA's Concert
for Party Animals - a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of stars who have
made the fight for animal rights one of today's most popular causes.
Peaceable Kingdom
(2004, Tribe of Hearts)
Peaceable Kingdom is a thoughtful and balanced documentary which
provides a truthful look at the plight of animals on today's factory
farms. Their suffering is not just at the time of slaughter, but every
day of their lives. The film makers provide a factual movie which
educates but does not judge. Meat eaters do add to the demand which
keeps these factory farms in business, but they are often not aware
about the suffering experienced by the animals behind the closed doors
of these farms. The good news is that there are some wonderful people,
featured in this documentary, who are working to help these animals.
Peaceable Kingdom is at times sad, shocking, and depressing but it is
ultimately uplifting and inspiring. It is highly recommended viewing.
The Art of Balance
Tricia Brennan (2005, Bolinda Publications)
Harmonising mediations to restore you to a state of peace and
positivity. From acclaimed intuitive counsellor Tricia Brennan. The
pressures of everyday life often result in us carrying negativity in our
minds and bodies. These CDs provide meditations based on the emotional
spectrum of colours. Designed to help bring balance and harmony into
your life, they will assist you to release negativity, develop your
confidence and create positive life changes. They can be used when
needed, and require nothing of you except to listen.
The Plague Dogs
Martin Rosen (1982, Nepenthe Productions)
Determined to escape the confines of an evil laboratory, two
dogs make a flight for freedom into the rugged hills. Panicked by the
cries of other animals on their way out, they accidentally break a vial
used by plague researchers, and when news gets out that the two could be
infected, the human world launches the deadliest hunt. From the
director of Watership Down.
Truth or Dairy (VHS)
The Vegan Society UK (1994, self-published)
Truth or Dairy explains just why it is that some people have
decided to go against the grain of popular burger, shake and fries
culture and attempts to answer that most difficult of questions: "If you
give up eating meat, fish, milk, eggs and cheese, is there anything
left except a few poxy vegetables?"
The following books can be read on
the internet for free:
How to Successfully Become a Vegetarian
Even if You Think You Can’t Do It
Even If You Think It’s Way Too Hard
Even If You Have Tried & Failed Before
By Rudy Hadisentosa
Chapters cover: A Brief History of Vegetarianism – How It Started
and What It All Means; Ethical Eating – Why Becoming a Vegetarian is
Good for You and for the Earth; Where Do I Begin? Getting Started on
Your Meatless Journey; Vegetarian Nutrition – Getting Everything Your
Body Needs; The Happy Vegetarian – How a Meatless Diet Will Improve Your
Health and Well-Being; Balancing the Scales – Losing Weight While on a
Vegetarian Diet; Delicious Vegetarian Recipes That Everyone Can Enjoy;
Shopping the "Health Food" Aisle – Solving the Mysteries of Seeds, Soy
and Stevia; The Pros and Cons of Milk, Cheese, Yogurt and Other Dairy
Products.
Animal Research Takes
Lives
Humans and Animals BOTH Suffer
By Bette Overell
In 1978 Bette Overell founded the N.Z. Anti-Vivisection Society of
which she
has been President for 15 years. Drawing on evidence of which the
author says there is an abundance, this book is
Bette Overell's answer to Animal Research Saves Lives, a booklet
produced and distributed widely throughout New Zealand in 1990 by MAF
and private organisations.
Good
News for All Creation. Vegetarianism as Christian Stewardship
By
Stephen R. Kaufman & Nathan Braun
This book explores the
reasons that more and more Christians are
finding vegetarianism central to the witness of Christian faith
and stewardship. "Vegetarianism has deepened our Christian faith
and our faith has strengthened our resolve to maintain a
vegetarian diet. Our vegetarianism is much more than simply a
dietary preference, and we don't see it as a burden or
self-sacrifice. Rather, we see our diet as part of our broader
spiritual lives, manifesting core values such as love, compassion,
and peace. For many of us, vegetarianism is a gift, helping make
our lives more uplifting, liberating, and joyful." In addition, for
many vegetarian Christians, the diet symbolically expresses a
belief that God plans to reconcile the world to God's original
intentions (see chapter 5).
Vegan, The New Ethics of Eating
By Erik Marcus
This book shows why a change in what you eat can be so simple and yet so significant.
Examines the health, ethical and environmental issues surrounding food choices through the
work of eight featured experts.