Introduction
For anyone curious about homesteading, gardening, or living more intentionally, Attainable Sustainable by Kris Bordessa is one of the most accessible and inspiring guides available today. It blends old-world wisdom with modern practicality, showing that you don’t need acres of land or a full farm setup to build a more self-sufficient life. In this review, we’ll explore why this book has become a staple for aspiring homesteaders, urban gardeners, and anyone striving for a more mindful, sustainable lifestyle.
What the Book Is About
At its core, Attainable Sustainable is a giant, beautifully illustrated handbook focused on realistic ways to produce, preserve, and build more of what you use in daily life. It covers:
Growing your own food Natural home projects DIY household essentials Food preservation Eco-friendly living habits Simple sustainability practices for beginners
The book is structured so you can open to any section and immediately find a project or idea you can try that same day—no need for expensive equipment or large spaces.
Key Themes and Takeaways
1. Self-Reliance Made Simple
One of the biggest strengths of the book is its accessibility. Whether you live in a small apartment or have a big backyard, Bordessa’s approach shows that anyone can start taking steps toward a more independent lifestyle.
2. Food From Garden to Table
The gardening chapters are a highlight, offering clear guidance on:
Companion planting Soil health Growing herbs, vegetables, and fruit Small-space garden solutions
Her step-by-step advice makes gardening feel less intimidating, especially for beginners.
3. DIY Projects That Feel Doable
From homemade cleaners to simple woodworking tasks, the DIY sections are both instructive and inspiring. The instructions are easy to follow, and most projects use affordable, common materials.
4. Preservation & Food Storage
This is where the book shines for anyone wanting to reduce waste or rely less on grocery stores. Bordessa includes techniques like:
Canning Dehydrating Fermenting Freezing
It’s a one-stop reference that demystifies food preservation for people of all skill levels.
5. Sustainability as a Mindset
Beyond the practical guidance, Attainable Sustainable encourages readers to shift how they think—choosing reusable over disposable, intentional over impulsive, handmade over mass-produced. It’s sustainability that feels achievable rather than overwhelming.
Who This Book Is For
This book is ideal for:
Urban or suburban gardeners Beginners wanting a clear path into homesteading Eco-conscious households DIY hobbyists Families looking for hands-on projects Anyone pursuing a slower, more connected lifestyle
Even advanced gardeners or homesteaders will likely find new tips or inspiration.
Strengths of the Book
Highly visual with beautiful photography Clear instructions for novices Wide variety of topics covered in one place Encouraging tone that supports trial and error Practical, low-cost strategies
Areas Some Readers May Want More Depth
While the breadth is excellent, some readers may find they want deeper, more technical information in areas like advanced gardening or large-scale preservation. However, this is more a testament to how inspiring the book is—it makes you want to learn more.
Final Verdict
Attainable Sustainable is one of the most useful and beautiful sustainability guides available today. It’s packed with actionable steps, gorgeous visuals, and a warm, encouraging tone that makes homesteading feel possible for everyone—not just those with land or experience.
If you’re trying to live more intentionally, grow more of your own food, or reduce your dependence on store-bought goods, this book deserves a permanent spot on your shelf.
Conclusion
Living sustainably doesn’t require perfection—it just requires starting somewhere. Attainable Sustainable provides countless entry points for that journey. Whether you want to garden, craft, cook, or preserve, this book will give you the confidence and knowledge to begin.
What sustainable skills are you most excited to learn next?
Mindful Explorer 