Essential Questions:

1.  How does Beavan support his eco-friendly argument throughout his book?  (What types of evidence does he use, and what types of appeals does he make?  Which are most effective?  What are anecdotes and how does Beavan use them to enhance his purpose?) 

2.  How does the structure of Beavan's text support his viewpoint?  (Consider everything, from the packaging to the chapter structure to the organization of his evidence.)

3.  Note the various styles of leads Beavan uses in each chapter.  Which is most effective and why? 

4.  Compare and contrast Colin Beavan and Henry David Thoreau.

5.  What is the significance of the epigraph?

6.  How have you been influenced by Beavan's message?  Where do you personally find the most challenges to being eco-friendly? 

Links: 

Check out Colin Beavan's current blog. 

View Annie Leonard's video, The Story of Stuff.  Just her use of line drawings and symbols is really cool. 

Complete a carbon cleanse with a complete step-by-step guide from Beavan himself.  Watch the video clip.  Next date:  August 29, 2010. 

View the reading group guide provided by Macmillian and review the questions over the story, contemplate the questions about green living, and check out additional related websites. 

Check out Sierra Club's 2010 list of 100 Cool Schools.  Which college is the greenest?  Is your top choice on the list? 

Read the New York Times movie review of No Impact Man.  I especially like how fair it is, describing both the pros and cons. 

Listen to or read an interview with the author on National Public Radio (npr). 

Visit websites that Beavan mentions in the appendix: 

Updated 8/17/09