Farming While Black

By Leah Penniman,

Book cover of Farming While Black: Soul Fire Farm's Practical Guide to Liberation on the Land

Book description

Leah Penniman - recipient of the James Beard Foundation Leadership Award 2019'An extraordinary book...part agricultural guide, part revolutionary manifesto.' VOGUE

'Farming While Black offers a guide to reclaiming food systems from white supremacy.' Bon Appetit

In 1920, 14 percent of all land-owning US farmers were black. Today less than 2…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked Farming While Black as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Farming While Black explores an often neglected perspective on regenerative agriculture. It is a “how to” guide for aspiring African-heritage growers to reclaim their dignity as agriculturists, but Penniman also wants everyone to understand the contributions of African-heritage people to farming. She explores soil fertility, seed selection, using whole foods in culturally appropriate recipes, and sharing stories of ancestors including the trauma associated with slavery and economic exploitation. The book tells the story of Soul Fire Farm, located in upstate New York, a national leader in the food justice movement.

Farming While Black aims to restore the connection between Black people and the land, acknowledging the complications involved in returning to a profession that ties them to a traumatic and exploitive history and also providing a positive outlook by tying in traditional African growing traditions and wisdom. Along with discussing the necessary redesign of our food system in order to benefit us all, it also includes a practical agricultural how-to guide.

From Hannah's list on food sovereignty.

Want books like Farming While Black?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 13 books like Farming While Black.

Browse books like Farming While Black

Book cover of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants
Book cover of The Omnivore's Dilemma
Book cover of The Revolution Will Not Be Microwaved: Inside America's Underground Food Movements

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,586

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in regenerative agriculture, agriculture, and sustainable agriculture?

Agriculture 88 books