Did you know that money hasn’t always been the way people exchanged resources? In many communities all over the world, people supported each other by creating grassroots economies that functioned similarly to the way mycorrhizal fungi support plants: by facilitating exchange and regulating/prioritising resources based on individual needs. These grassroots economies have often been subsumed by colonialism and money, but now they are making a comeback.
I’ve been following the work of Will Ruddick and Grassroots Economics for a while now, so I was delighted when Will contacted me and asked me to copyedit the book he was writing.
When he sent me a draft, I was even happier, because I could see it was packed full of wisdom and the kind of empowering information I wish everyone knew. I was so excited at the idea of diving in and making the prose really sing, while ensuring that Will’s calm, warm voice shone through.
Will was on a deadline, and he was also keen to invite other experts to give input on the draft. The feedback kept coming in, and we kept rejigging things, while I kept a weather eye out for any issues that might be introduced in the updated text.
It was an intense few weeks, with a lot of messages flying back and forth. I really enjoyed it, even more so because Will it clear he appreciated my work.
(Quoted with permission.)
And then it was a book! A really beautiful one, too. Just look! 👇🏾
Credit for this beautiful cover and design goes to Octopi
Grassroots Economics: Reflection and Practice brings together Will Ruddick’s vast experience of working with communities that are practising ways to build resilience and trust in economies that don’t rely on outdated, centralised currency systems. He walks us through the solutions and ideas with case studies to ensure that the theory doesn’t get too dry – and the real-life examples are fascinating to read in themselves. It’s an inspiring read – and, as you can see, a really beautifully illustrated. In line with the principles outlined inside, it’s available at cost, or you can download the PDF version free. Go here to learn more or download a copy.
Thanks for letting me be a part of this, Will! 💚
(Quoted with permission.)
“The best copy-editor in the world”? That’s officially the best feedback I’ve ever received, anyway! 💚
I’m now taking bookings for large (book-length) projects for late April, May and June. (If you have a shorter project, don’t worry – I always make sure I keep some time free to fit those in around the bigger projects.) If you’re interested in working with me, email liz@betterworldwords.com to explore whether we’d be a good fit!
And in case you’re here for the grassroots economics and other ideas for saving the world, here’s another link to that beautiful book: Grassroots Economics: Reflections and Practice.
Better World Words 