The Story of More: How We Got to Climate Change and Where to Go From Here — 4.6 Stars

11/25/2025

“We must learn to live together if we want to live well.” p. 13 — Hope Zahren

The Story of More

The RCMG Book Club readers had many thoughtful responses to the book. Some people were struck by the overconsumption evident in our society. Some readers were awed by the facts Hope Jahren presented that show both sides of issues (e.g. what resources are used by an electric vehicle). In other words, there can be two truths at one time. Some readers noted her presentation of history and how various things have become part of our society (e.g. high fructose corn syrup). Readers felt like each chapter of this book was concise and understandable.

Readers noted many things noticed in their own backyards that are evidence of climate change…50 degrees in late November, migratory birds still in the area, ground that is not yet frozen, algae in lakes, plant harvests even in late autumn, rain amounts, snow cover and fewer days of snow cover, survivability of Minnesota’s usual native plants, significant increase in summer humidity, larger and more frequent hail. As Master Gardeners, we can keep notes of what we notice and share our observations with other Master Gardeners and the community members with whom we work. We can also encourage our community members to compost their food waste, consume their leftover foods, shop at places that donate their surplus to various food support networks, practice food preservation techniques, and align their ideas with the best practices for our climate.

The author encourages people to “use less and share more” and notes that the biggest challenge our generation will face is just that. Readers talked about ways to share more and to promote access to things that are costly and perhaps infrequently used. The Minnesota Tool Library is one source for borrowing. Ramsey County Library’s Library of Things is another great source for borrowing. Our organization could also sponsor a tool-sharing event. In our classes and in community outreach, we can share the information we have learned and encourage others to start small in order to make a difference.

“It is in you that you must look, not around you.” - Eugène Delacroix (1798-1863)

Note: A young people’s version of this book is also available.

Reader Poll

• Enjoyable - 4.7 out of 5 stars

• Useful/Educational - 4.7 out of 5 stars

• Recommended - 4.3 out of 5 stars

  
  

Sea of Grass: the Conquest, Ruin, and Redemption of Nature on the American Prairie

Next Book Club Discussion

The next RCMG Book Club selection for January 2026 is Sea of Grass: the Conquest, Ruin, and Redemption of Nature on the American Prairie by Dave Hage and Josephine Marcotty.