What People Have Said About Zoe Weil’s Presentations, Workshops, 1-Woman Show, and Books

Zoe’s Presentations -  Zoe’s Workshops – Zoe’s 1-Woman Show -  Zoe’s Books

“Author, activist, artist and leader, Zoe Weil is a visionary, a change-maker and an inspiration. From her pioneering work training educators to teach critical and principled thinking, to her vision of a new educational paradigm to prepare students for a world in which information changes almost as quickly as it can be taught, Zoe is at the forefront of a movement to create a more just, compassionate and sustainable world.  In the 20+ years I’ve known Zoe, I’ve been awed, inspired, humbled and energized by her simple yet powerful message of doing the most good and the least harm, and the way in which she embodies and draws upon inquisitiveness, introspection and integrity to make compassionate choices.”
~ Donnamarie Mazzola

“With healthy doses of wit, candor and insight, Zoe Weil shows us just how tricky — and funny — it can be attempting to live as a full-time compassionate citizen on this wonderful, complicated planet. If you like laughter, deep thought, and hearty challenges, then you don’t want to miss [her 1-woman show] “My Ongoing Problems with Kindness.”  Long live MOGO Girl and her growing band of solutionaries!”
~ Kurt Schmidt, organizer of the international debut of Zoe’s 1-woman show in Fredericton, NB

RESPONSES TO ZOE’S PRESENTATIONS:

“How could you NOT love a talk like that? Star Trek, fixing the education system, human rights, animal cruelty . . . That’s the closest to a complete TED talk I’ve ever seen.”
~ Erik Richardson (response to Zoe’s TEDx talk)

“That was the best presentation I’ve ever heard. It was perfect.”
~ Gary Goldberg (response to Zoe’s TEDxDirigo talk on 10/10/10)

“Zoe’s beautifully crafted and inspiring message, ‘A Better World, a Meaningful Life,” delivered at our three Sunday services, was deeply engaging and moving–intellectually, emotionally, spiritually….It’s likely that ‘Most Good’ and humane education will be focuses of sustained interest and action in our congregation.” ~ Will Fellows, member, First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee

“In a workshop presented by Zoe Weil at the 1st Unitarian Society of Milwaukee the message that most moved me in the direction of making real changes in my life was that of  ‘get the facts’ and then ‘make up your own mind.’ I think if there had been any hint of ‘MOGO way or the highway’ I would have tuned out. Instead I find myself studying labels, seeking information and making the kind of informed choices I never bothered with before!!” ~ Jo Schmidt, member, First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee

“Thank you very much for your very insightful and wonderful presentation at the Introduction to Peace Studies class. Students were deeply impressed with your presentation and the work you are doing to introduce Humane Education around the country and Canada. After you left the students spoke very highly of your talk and how well your material and the approach you are using embraces the principles we espouse at Peace Studies.”
~ Hugh Curran, Adjunct Professor, Peace and Reconciliation Studies, University of Maine

“I was inspired by your presentation. Not only the content, with which I strongly concur, but also the way you did it.  Excellent presentation — and I have come to realize just how important presentation of something is.  You are not only on top of your subject but you are truly with the audience and they with you.”
~ John Resenbrink, Professor Emeritus Bowdoin College, Co-founder, United States Green Party

“I’ve enjoyed your entire approach. Sometimes I come to these things and it’s so guilt-ridden.  It’s like if you leave this talk without guilt, you’ve missed something, and YOU didn’t do that at all. What you’re emphasizing is exactly your seven [keys to MOGO]: joy, what’s your value system, pick an option and fix it. So, thank you.”
~ Liz Winet, Southbend, IN

“Zoe’s talk was the most inspirational experience I’ve had in years. I find myself reevaluating my life and taking time with introspection. Her talk has kindled a fire in me for a proactive life. The depth of Zoe’s passion was palpable.  Her authentic living and humble honesty was refreshing and heart-opening.  I felt myself smiling from my heart.”
~ Martha Ohrenberger, Penobscot, ME

“Zoe Weil is one of the most inspiring speakers I have ever heard.  People leave her talks eager and able to make a difference in the world.”
~ Michael Greger, M.D., Director, Public Health and Animal Agriculture
The Humane Society of the United States

“Zoe Weil is every conference organizer’s dream speaker: well-organized, well-spoken, informative, and entertaining. Her rankings as favorite speaker have been consistently high.”
~ Alex Hershaft, Ph.D., Chair, Animal Rights National Conferences

“After only the first few minutes listening to Zoe Weil speak at a compassionate living conference, I was completely changed.  I had never seen anyone so clearly embody her message or so deeply respect her audience.  She addressed the participants from her heart and guided us masterfully with her wisdom and compassion.”
~ Khalif Williams, Interim Director, The Bay School

“Zoe Weil is more than a speaker.  She transforms lives and is changing the world with every presentation.”
~ Caryn Ginsberg, Founder, Priority Ventures Group

“Zoe Weil is one of the most inspirational speakers I’ve ever had the pleasure to enjoy in person.  She has an uncanny ability to motivate even the most apathetic audience member to act to make the world a more compassionate and merciful place.”
~ Josh Balk, Outreach Coordinator, The Humane Society of the United States

“I heard Zoe Weil speak at a conference in 2001.  Zoe so inspired me to think about and see things in a completely different way that within six months I had given up my job as a business/IT consultant to become a humane educator.  To say that she had a big impact on my life would be an understatement, indeed.”
- Bob Schwalb, M.Ed., Humane Educator

“Zoe Weil is a phenomenal speaker who inspires hope whenever she speaks.  Courageous, astounding, and passionate – these words reflect Zoe’s character and vision.”
- Dani Dennenberg, M.Ed., Higher Education Sustainability Consultant, Northwest Earth Institute

“As a teacher, I frequently attend workshops and trainings, and I can honestly say that Zoe Weil combines the very best of what I look for in a presenter.  She speaks from the heart with passion and good humor as she threads her extensive personal experience together with elegant analyses of solid research.  You can count on Zoe for an exuberant presentation which is a sensible and memorable balance of both heart and mind.”
~ Melissa Feldman, M.Ed., Founder, Circle of Compassion

“Zoe’s expertise and passion awaken powerful feelings in her listeners.  Intelligent, affable, and intuitive, Zoe connects with her audience at all levels and leaves a mark of professionalism as well as a deep and personal impression.”
~ Roberto Giannicola, Founder, Provokare

RESPONSES TO ZOE’S WORKSHOPS:

From Zoe’s MOGO Workshop at Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, 9/25/10:

“Zoe is great and the workshop fulfilled all my expectations – which are high!” ~ Margaretha Beckers Netherton

“Zoe is a great, energetic, clear and enthusiastic presenter.” ~ Molly Cantor

“I now feel that the choices and changes I make can actually make a difference in ‘the big picture.’” ~ Aline Ramos

“Interesting and entertaining way of presenting this information (the day went by so quickly) – I feel inspired!” ~ Tom Progar

“Clear, practical, well-informed principles, welcoming and universally relevant.” ~ Clayton Ingerson

From Zoe’s humane education workshop at the Taking Action for Animals Conference, 7/24/10:

“This was one of the best presentations of the conference! Thank you!”

“I love Zoe Weil’s compassionate persuasion – she keeps it so real [and] helped me be a better messenger for a better world.”

“Best workshop ever! I’m inspired!”

“Wonderful, engaging, such a terrific speaker!”

“What can I say – Zoe is amazing – her intelligence, patience, and practical info!”

“Excellent content, excellent presentations, clear and interesting, inspiring!”

From Other Previous Workshops:

“You are so amazing! You are as entertaining as you are informative and inspiring.”
~ Anne McNamara, Their Lives, Our Voices Conference workshop (6/12/10)

“Absolutely fantastic and life changing….Thank you Zoe for what you have done and all that you do.”
~ Patti Gibbons (MOGO Workshop, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, 4/19/09)

“Thank you Zoe! This was yet another invigorating and clarifying experience.”
~ Robin Williams (MOGO Workshop, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, 4/19/09)

“Thanks so much! This has been one of the most, if not the only, beneficial 8-hour workshop I’ve ever engaged in.  I refocused, learned new info, got some new resources, and met some new people.”
~ Deanna Cintas (MOGO Workshop, Portland, Oregon, 2/7/09)

“I really appreciated this workshop and got a lot from it.  These practices help with my everyday life and personal choices and [this] has truly re-charged me. Thank you. Also, your high, positive energy is really great to see and leads to better learning.”
~ Chelsea Lincoln (MOGO Workshop, Portland, Oregon, 2/7/09)

“You do such an excellent job of presenting the 7 Keys, the 3 Cs, 3 Rs, and 3 Is, in ways that really help people think about their life choices and values without feeling overwhelmed.  I also appreciate your stories about ways other people live out their MOGO messages!  Thank you for inspiring me and motivating me in my MOGO journey. This is an excellent workshop!”
~ Karolyn Nearing (MOGO Workshop, Portland, Oregon, 2/7/09)

“This was a GREAT way to spend a Saturday. I feel very enlightened!”
~ Matt Johnson (MOGO Workshop, Portland, Oregon, 2/7/09)

“The MOGO program is just what we need at this time in our history. It integrated today’s pressing issues into what an individual can do to create a safe and compassionate world.”
~ Clarence Widerburg (MOGO Workshop, Portland, Oregon, 2/7/09)

“Powerful. Transformative.”
~Susan Feathers, Executive Director, Center for Public Services and Public Interest Law, Stanford Law School (Stanford Law MOGO Workshop, Stanford, California, 2/3/09)

“I truly enjoyed the training and appreciate your energy and inspiration!”
~ Katie Lisnik (Sowing Seeds, South Portland, Maine, 11/15/08 )

“Zoe’s energy was contagious.  For those of us looking for a shot of inspiration, we got it! Even for myself, coming in to the workshop with little background knowledge of the Institute for Humane Education and somewhat vague expectations, I’m able to leave now with a renewed commitment to be the best resource I can be for my students.”
~ Jessica Stammen (Sowing Seeds, South Portland, Maine, 11/15/08 )

“Zoe, you have been one of the most inspiring, wise, and fun facilitators I have ever had. You bring such a wonderful humility and energizing spirit, and it just makes me really inspired!”
~ Jeanette Richelson, Cambridge, MA (Sowing Seeds, South Portland, Maine, 11/15/08 )

“The entire presentation/structure was outstanding….  Keep up the great work. I hope your activities will expand across the entire planet!”
~ Karen Coker (Sowing Seeds, South Portland, Maine, 11/15/08 )

“Excellent workshop that will help me both professionally and personally in creating a more humane community.”
~ Linda Jariz, The Linkage Project, Maine (Sowing Seeds, South Portland, Maine, 11/15/08 )

“Thank you for this whole experience.  It has been such an amazing inspiration.  Words can’t describe how wonderful this has been for me.”
~ Wendy Workman, Ontario

“The workshop is incredibly empowering…. I want to thank you for your incredible work.  You are so full of life, energy and love, which makes one’s heart willingly open to receive in the most welcoming way all your messages.  Thank you for inspiring me.”
~ Veronica Munoz, Ontario

“It was my favorite seminar I have ever taken.”
~ Dan Capello, Pennsylvania

“Congratulations on your thorough treatment of the issues, focus on both content and process, and the integrity, spirit, and caring reflected in what you do.  The dynamic and flexible nature of your process is highly commendable.  Thanks so much for your dedication and efforts to this work!”
~ Shannon Markley, Washington

“Thank you for your continued efforts to share the message of compassionate living, for teaching us to be introspective, and setting an example so others can look at themselves and make more humane choices.”
~ Lynn Hildebrand, California

“On a scale of 1 to 10, this is 11.”
~ Nancy Harrison, M.D., California

“This was absolutely unbelievable.  I was totally touched and changed.”
~ Michelle Turechek, Illinois

“[The workshop] exceeded my expectations profoundly…. Every component of the last two days was truly ineffable.  I have never experienced such positive energy in a workshop…. The most rewarding two days.”
~ Sarah Hambley, British Colombia

“This should be part of every program charged with educating future educators!  In all the education courses I’ve taken… this has been the most useful and inspiring.”
~ Julie Thompson, Colorado

“It was so amazingly inspiring to hear you speak exactly what is in my heart.”
~ Shari Leskowitz, Texas

“This workshop has given me so many new and exciting ways to spread the message of compassion.  I feel rejuvenated and challenged. I can ‘t wait to get home and make my life even more responsible and humane…. Thank you so much for such a mind and heart expanding weekend.”
~ Kirsti Gholson, New York

“As a high school student, I found this the most educational thing I have ever been part of…. It was inspirational.  I ‘ve always known I want to help others, and in this weekend my goals have become clear.  You have shown me I can do anything.  This was life changing, and I will never forget it.  Thank you.  You are changing the world, and make me feel like I can too.”
~ Allison Jaquish, British Colombia

“I feel empowered: I am reminded of my passions and my dreams… but most importantly I am re-charged and ready to get out there and develop programs in my hometown.  Thank you.”
~ Jessica Anderson, Colorado

“I am so excited and grateful that you are bringing humane education and humane lifestyles to other people as your life’s work!  It helps me and others so much to see ideals made real.”
~ Erika Straus-Bowers, Pennsylvania

“Absolutely beyond my expectations…  a mature, thoughtful, balanced presentation….  I was most impressed with their compassionate, spiritual attitude.”
~ Sydney Thomas, Ph.D., Maine

“Coming to this workshop was very encouraging and supportive – I know that I want to make a difference in a greater way.  Thank you so much for what you are doing.”
~ Linda Cousens, Maine

”Thanks so much.  You’ve taught me a lot and gotten me excited about the potential of humane education and making a difference in the world.”
~ John Brazner, Nova Scotia

“To even attempt a workshop of this type is a huge undertaking – to accomplish it as successfully as this one is a real coup!”
~ Margaretha Beckers-Netherton, Virginia

“Thank you so much for what you do!  I like how you make everyone right and valid – this is important to impart to humane educators, and I got it.”
~ Juli Szilagyi, Arizona

“We are all teachers, and seeing myself as a teacher it’s about time I owned this responsibility.  I thank you … for so many concrete examples on how to do this work….  Thanks for your example.”
~ Mary Sichel, New York

“I had already been directed by some knowledge of your pioneering efforts.  It is wonderful to meet individuals such as yourselves who have done so much to deepen the animal-human-earth protection understanding.”
~ Susan Carr Grant, New York

“I can honestly say that it was the single most life-changing and eye opening experience in my life so far!  The presenters were great teachers not just because they were effective communicators who could connect with the students, but they were most effective because their actions and life choices taught their message…  I have been challenged to take action to respect and care for everyone on earth and that has been very uplifting for me…. Thank you so much for touching my life and inspiring me to do something special with my life.  I’m so excited about the ‘new eyes’ you’ve given me through which I now look at the world with more compassion and understanding.”
~ Donna Calvao, California

“The whole weekend was incredible and very inspiring.  Thanks.”
~ Mark Herman, California

“I will incorporate all the wonderful things I learned into my everyday work and life and future work….  I came to this workshop thinking that I was a very aware person, but I found myself learning many things that I had never considered before and left with my mind opened, my horizons broadened, and my consciousness definitely raised.”
~ Sue Morris, Pennsylvania

“The best workshop I have ever attended because it was not status quo.  You took the time to help your participants really learn from within themselves.”
~ Kim Connor, Texas

“You are so loving; you are superb role models and activists for the rest of us.”
~ Ginny Mead, New Hampshire

“Such richness of sharing and learning in this wise and compassionate living place has helped move me forward on the path to conscious responsibility and love.  I will live what I have been nourished with here.”
~ Marjo Kannry, Maine

“The course revitalized my ability to see the beauty in the people, animals and things around me.  It called on me to bring a critical eye to all my activities and to examine the far-reaching effects of my choices.”
~ Marla Lender, New York

“This is a class that has touched my life because it invited me to challenge my values.  I am grateful for that opportunity and for the love and energy that the instructors pour into this class to allow it to happen.”
~ Valorie Larson, Maine

“This is the most powerful course I have taken at the University of Maine, by far.”
~ Gina Graveline, Maine

“Empowering…it made me less judgmental of others and more hopeful that change in the world is possible.  Thanks for inspiring me to become an educator and for the knowledge that teaching can empower both teacher and student.”
~ Rachel White, Washington, D.C.

”It was all inspiring and eye opening. The examples of activities were most important to me, as I now have resources to use in my own life….  I’m still absorbing the wonder of it all!”
~ Diane Moreau, Massachussetts

“I feel so much better prepared to advocate for humane ways of being on this Earth in both my personal life and in my role as a public school teacher.  The people reverberated with positive energy, kindness, and the hunger to bring about compassionate change.”
~ Claire Ruthenburg, Maine

“[The workshop is] a great way to model safe/secure activist work that touches people and creates positive change more successfully than anything else I have seen.”
~ Sarah Perine, California
 

PRAISE FOR ZOE’S 1-WOMAN SHOW:

“Zoe Weil uses wit and endearing self-deprecating humor to help viewers critically examine some of their most deep-seated assumptions about themselves, their world, and their impact on others. Zoe manages to open people’s minds to critical social issues while — or, by — putting a smile on their faces, not an easy feat!”
~ Melanie Joy, Ph.D., professor of sociology and psychology at the University of Massachusetts – Boston, author, and founder of the Carnism Awareness and Action Network

“Zoe Weil’s 1-woman show is comedy at its most poignant and generous. The fun she makes is of herself, her own vulnerabilities, ambitions and ideals. And the result, while very funny, is both educational and forgiving as we struggle to make the world a better place.”
~ artist Robert Shetterly, creator of the Americans Who Tell the Truth portrait series

“Zoe’s show offers a deft balance of humor and thought-provoking insights. It made me laugh, made me cry, and everything in between!”
~ Petra Peppelashi, board member, Animals & Society Institute

“Zoe Weil never ceases to amaze, inspire, and push her own boundaries. She has dedicated her life to living ethically, healthfully, and teaching about everyday choices and their effects—for better or for worse– on the environment and animals and human society. She’s brave, she’s unabashed, she fizzes and pops as she shares her tussles with public and personal challenges, recognizing that if she is to be effective in her public role as a humane educator, she must not only fully inhabit the values she represents, but must be prepared to be challenged at every turn. But thank goodness she’s not didactic or self-righteous—she’s really funny! What she does in her show is incredibly generous. By being joyfully engaged in her life’s work (teaching and learning), she embraces the “passion” in “compassion,” sharing her observations and experience in this show with humor and candor and depth.”
~ Laura Yanne, Dorset, Vermont

PRAISE FOR ZOE’S BOOKS:

Most Good, Least Harm: A Simple Principle for a Better World and Meaningful Life

Most Good, Least Harm is a Silver Winner for the 2010 Nautilus Book Awards. The award “recognizes books and audio books that promote spiritual growth, conscious living & positive social change, while at the same time they stimulate the “imagination” and offer the reader “new possibilities” for a better life and a better world.”

“If you feel helpless in the world around you—as if you’re at the mercy of the BP oil spill, nuclear threats, environmental destruction, and war pulsing all across the globe—this is the tool that will make you feel empowered and ready for action!”
~ Sara Schmidt, Spirituality Bestsellers blog – Read the complete review.

“The book Most Good, Least Harm by Zoe Weil…is an amazing read – every page has something that has a life-changing thought on it if you choose to do something about it. It is truly an unbelievable book in the ideas that she’s writing about regarding a new way that each of us can live our lives so that we can each be gentle and compassionate.”
~ Joan Sinden, MOGO Online Participant, September 2009, and DogKisser blogger

“As a nature lover and environmental activist I’ve been recently uplifted by Most Good, Least Harm by Zoe Weil. She encourages individuals to do what they can do change the world. Her book gives a new hope and impetus to those who envision a better, healthier, more respected, and valued world. As a teacher I will use this book to encourage my students to make thoughtful choices in their lives.”
~ Judi Lindsey, from Christian Science Monitor Readers’ Picks

“Most Good, Least Harm is a self-reflective read, one that will leave you empowered, educated, and hopeful. It conveys a wealth of information, and excellent resource list, and is a welcome complement to the growing library of books that offer hope of healing the world — one individual, and one decision, at a time.”
~ VegNews, July/August 2009, p. 76.

“This book nicely ties together the principles of sustainability, animal welfare, environmentalism, simple living, and activism….[It provides] an excellent framework for someone to evaluate what they consider to be most important for a most good world, including an action plan for implementing a MOGO lifestyle.”
~ Tabita, Product Management Zen blog – Read the complete review.

“The wisdom of Most Good, Least Harm helps guide the reader to make mindful choices at each step of our daily lives, resulting in a collectively changed world.”
~ Lois A. Rogalski, New Age Retailer – Read the complete review.

“Clearly, creating a life of the highest integrity requires a great deal of introspection and the changes required can seem intimidating. But the author is not asking for overnight change; rather, she seeks to inspire us to think and act from a higher place and make the changes we feel we need to make, at our own pace and one at a time. MOGO is a process, and it’s one we urgently need.”
~ Sarah Irani, Ecosalon - Read the complete review.

“With an amazingly useful way of thinking and acting, Most Good, Least Harm is multi-faceted in its utility….The innovation in this book is…spreading a message of being socially, politically, and environmentally conscious when making decisions.”
~ Jordan Dacayanan, Sacramento Book Review – Read the complete review.

“Weil is inspiring. Her book is never for a single second judgmental or demeaning. There were isolated moments of feeling overwhelmed, but Weil’s humane intuition clearly guided her as she wrote – the moment you find yourself overwhelmed, Weil’s words are there to calm you. Most Good, Least Harm is like sitting with a really wise, close friend. She’ll tell you her opinion. She’ll tell you what’s right. But, she’ll never make you feel bad for being you. She’ll bite her tongue just enough to let you find your own course. And then she’ll be right there to congratulate you in the end. It’s MOGO, through and through. And you can be MOGO, too.”
~ Janelle Sorensen, Healthy Child, Healthy World blog – Read the complete review.

“…whether a concerned citizen, a parent, educator, or activist (or if you consider yourself in all of these ways), I can say with certainty that you will appreciate the wisdom and heart of Most Good, Least Harm: A Simple Principle for a Better World and Meaningful Life (aka MOGO, short for “most good”). MOGO is a thoughtful, brave and visionary work of art and author, Zoe Weil is a beacon of light and hope. Filled with hands-on practical tools including questionnaires, step-by-step action plans, facts and statistics and a plethora of intriguing personal stories, MOGO sets the novice environmental steward on a profound path and the old-timer on an equally thoughtful path.”
~ Dani Dennenberg, Northwest Earth Institute - Read the complete review. (PDF)

“Zoe Weil is a true educator with a fund of inspiring examples, a sound moral principle, and abundant common sense. Reading Most Good, Least Harm – and passing it on to others – will do lots of good and no harm.”
~ Peter Singer, author of Animal Liberation and professor of bioethics, Princeton University

“There is a deep and useful wisdom in this book. It is clean, courageous, and generous. Reading Most Good, Least Harm gave me a much greater understanding of how I can live a better life, a more conscious life, and a more joyful life.”
~ John Robbins, author of Diet for a New America, The Food Revolution, and Healthy at 100.

“Most Good, Least Harm is a brave, honest, important book. Zoe Weil not only teaches us how to think more comprehensively about today’s critical political, environmental and energy issues, but, more importantly, how to act more effectively. We learn about the necessity of personal engagement for the good of our communities, our democracy, and for the hope of a sustainable future. With facts and individual stories she shows us that the change in our behavior will be successful, not because of financial gain, but because of the deepening of joy and meaning in our lives.”
~ Robert Shetterly, artist

“By wedding a clarity of a new vision of community goodness with the clarity of meaningful citizen action, Zoe Weil’s amazing book is a recipe for saving the soul of America, and beyond. Most Good, Least Harm is a Must Read Now for everyone who wants to do something to make our country and the world a better place for the next generation, as well for all of us who have not been as effective as we could be in improving the human condition. It is a recipe for creating a nation of responsive social heroes, who collectively can achieve the positive changes we all desire.”
~ Dr. Philip G. Zimbardo, author of The Lucifer Effect.

“Zoe Weil’s pioneering book, Most Good Least Harm, offers a vision for how we cultivate a loving sense of appreciation for all forms of life. With a rare blend of wit, wisdom, and humility, she offers an inspiring roadmap for how to lead our lives in a way which brings balance to ourselves and the planet.”
~ Susan Feathers, executive director, John and Terry Levin Center for Public Services and Public Interest Law – Stanford Law School

“Zoe Weil’s beautifully distilled teaching is both hopeful and illuminates the way to a life that’s at once peaceful, purposeful and joyous. She offers potent medicine for the false and commonly-held belief that doing good requires personal sacrifice, and points the way to a path filled with congruence, reminding us that our inner and outer worlds are inextricably intertwined. She offers solid and clear prescriptions for a life well-lived, and one that is personally fulfilling and aligned, while recognizing the complexity of choices we all face, every day.”
~ Nina Simons, President and Co-Founder, Bioneers

“In a society where we often see ourselves as powerless to effect change, Zoe Weil provides a brilliant framework for leading us to a life of mindful choices, compassionate action and collective change. Most Good, Least Harm is a guide to blending spiritual activism, moral self-reflection and environmental concern for a more conscious life and a healthier planet.”
~ Gregg Krech, author of Naikan: Gratitude, Grace and the Japanese Art of Self-reflection

Claude and Medea: The Hellburn Dogs

“Youthful idealism, initiative, and humane sensitivity come together seamlessly in this animal-themed mystery caper, which is sure to have riveting appeal for young readers.”
~ Wayne Pacelle, President & CEO, The Humane Society of the United States

“In Claude and Medea we are introduced to two incredible characters whose very different lives are intertwined by their shared willingness to open their hearts and minds and see past prejudice. This charming story reminds us of the passion that welled inside of all of us when we learned of the injustices that take place in the world. Weil’s engaging book helps us appreciate the creativity of children and the desire that we all have to make a positive difference in the world—no matter our age. I look forward to reading more about the adventures of Claude and Medea.”
~ lauren Ornelas, Founder, Food Empowerment Project

“Zoe Weil is among the most influential humane educators in the world and her books are always incredibly educational and inspiring. I just love Claude and Medea – it’s a wonderful story, a true page-turner and riveting. It provides a perfect role model for kids, what they need most in an often complicated and frustrating world.”
~ Marc Bekoff, Professor Emeritus of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder

“Zoe Weil is a genius and has boiled down her wisdom into this delightful read for children to enjoy and learn from. Claude and Medea is a great tool for parents in raising thoughtful, compassionate and socially responsible children! If you have kids I recommend you get it today!”
~ Jen, KidLove

“Author Zoe Weil has created an enjoyable, progressive, truly family-friendly children’s book.”
~ Kelly Garbato, Easy Vegan – Read the complete review.

“This was [Zoe Weil's] first attempt at fiction and it’s really quite accomplished.  She gets right to the core of the characters, understanding how middle schoolers think and act.  If you have contact with any middle schoolers you might want to buy them a copy of this book.  It might even encourage you to think about how you’re living and how heroic you can be.”
~ Matt Langdon, The Hero Workshop - Read the complete review.

“In a world where society seems so self-centered, kids today need positive influences that instill good character and show why it is important to care about what happens to others. They also need books that teach as well as entertain. In Claude and Medea: The Hellburn Dogs, author Zoe Weil accomplishes all of the above.”
~ AV Magazine, Summer 2007 – Read the complete review.

“I read Claude and Medea in a sitting; I was depressed for all sorts of reasons, but probably most of all from being a grownup. I sat down to have a quick flick through, thinking myself too depressed to actually read it, and found myself whisked away to brisk September Manhattan morning, with 12-year-old Claude stepping onto a Madison Avenue bus on his way to school. Claude doesn’t know it yet but something is about to happen that will change his life forever. This exciting novel by animal activist Zoe Weil, who is president of the Institute for Humane Education, tells the story of what ensues after Claude meets Medea. It all begins with a mysterious substitute teached called Ms. Rattlebee, who wakens in the children feelings of compassion and empathy. Medea has been vegetarian since reading Charlotte’s Web, and after Ms. Rattlebee’s very strange first class, Claude decides to go veggie, too. Soon Claude and Medea are so inspired that they find themselves chasing dangerous criminals around New York, all to help the underdog, as it were. My only complaint is that the wonderful Ms. Rattlebee isn’t in the story long enough. Perhaps Zoe Weil could see her way to writing a sequel to this book, with Ms. Rattlebee playing an even bigger role. And I do think a fantastic movie could be made of Claude and Medea. The book is suitable for ages 9-12. I wish I could send a copy to every primary school kid on the planet.“
~ Vegan Voice, June-August 2007

The Power and Promise of Humane Education

“[The Power and Promise of Humane Education lays] out a practical guide for accessing complex issues in a manner that is thought-provoking, emotionally uplifting and joyous. There is no school anywhere in the world that could not adopt at least some portion of the approaches articulated in this book and gift them to students who are, after all, the foundation of a humane future.”
~ Dr. Michael Tobias, President, Dancing Star Foundation

“Practical, down-home and easy to read, a gold mine of information and, above all, inspirational. All educators and activists should read this book very carefully and share it widely. It is that good!”
~ Dr. Marc Bekoff, co-author with Jane Goodall of The Ten Trusts, and author of The Emotional Lives of Animals.

“If we only had more writers like Zoe Weil explaining the message and philosophy of humane education. What a genuine revolution we would have in our schools and our hearts!”
~ Colman McCarthy, former Washington Post columnist, Director of the Center for Teaching Peace

“Over 30 classroom years as a schoolteacher, and 18 more as a student, I become convinced that the familiar curriculum/testing cycle of institutional schooling decisively unplugs children from humane goals, substituting memory for meaning and procedures for philosophy. In The Power and Promise of Humane Education, chock full of nuts-and-bolts suggestions, Zoe Weil shows how we can redress the humane balance. Three cheers for this book — and for Zoe!”
~ John Taylor Gatto, former New York State schoolteacher, author of Dumbing Us Down: The Hidden Curriculum of Compulsory Schooling and The Underground History of American Education

The Power and Promise of Humane Education is the best introduction currently in existence to the understanding and practice of the exciting field of humane education.  Educational pioneer Zoe Weil’s skill at paving a more compassionate and interconnected way for education, through both her words and example, is at once extraordinary and greatly admirable.”
~ Sandra Hannen, President, New World Vision

“A pleasure to read and filled with useful information and resources for everyone who cares about kids and the future of life on Earth, The Power and Promise of Humane Education is an incredibly important book. The longing to give and to serve is part of a child’s essential nature,  and this book provides insights and practical tools to awaken the highest values in children, helping to raise a new generation that thrives in service and contribution.”
~ Ocean Robbins, Founder, Youth for Environmental Sanity (YES), author, Choices for Our Future

“…the best thing you’ll get out of the book is a brand new way of looking at education. Learning that emphasizes compassion, responsibility and courage. Education that tells children they can change the world every day with every choice they make. I’ve used this book countless times and recommended it a zillion times. Parents can use it with their kids and teachers can use it in the classroom. Use it yourself or give it as a gift. The impact will last generations.”
~ Ali, Livin’ Veg blog. Read the complete review.

“The Power and Promise begins with information you need to understand the essence of Humane Education, but moves quickly into practical suggestions for incorporating its ideas into your teaching without the necessity for a time slot for a new subject. Specific activities are clearly outlined with suggested grade level, lesson time and materials needed, and other subject areas in which related learning outcomes are mandated. The final chapter outlines ways that Humane Education can be implemented in both elementary and secondary schools. In this age of conflict, environmental degradation and global tragedies, The Power and Promise of Humane Education offers a concrete way to move towards a more peaceful and respectful way of living. I highly recommend it. “
~ Canadian Teacher Magazine – Read the complete review.

“Not afraid to challenge mainstream teaching, [Zoe Weil] points out what is wrong with Nike shoes and McDonald’s Happy Meals. She explains in detail the work standards, and environmental and social costs of popular culture. This approach forces children to see where their food, clothing, school supplies, soda cans and everything else, comes from. Each lesson ends in a positive and effective way; children are asked what alternatives they think are available, and then presented with a variety of humane choices. These lessons can be catered to students of all ages and is an essential aid for educators, parents and anyone concerned about our future.”
~ Maureen C. Wyse, Satya Magazine – Read the complete review.

“Zoe Weil’s book The Power and Promise of Humane Education is an inspiring volume that should be on every teacher’s reading list. This book describes the key elements of humane education and offers inspiring stories, concrete examples and sample lesson plans. This thought-provoking book is aimed at changing the way young people look at the world.”
~ Kate Slomkowski, E: The Environmental Magazine – Read the complete review.

Above All, Be Kind: Raising a Humane Child in Challenging Times

“Profound, practical, positive and potentially pivotal, this book is a vital tool in the struggle to raise healthy and happy children who know the joy and richness of service and compassion. Recommended reading for parents, teachers, aunts, uncles – everyone who loves children and wants to see them thrive.”
~ Ocean Robbins, Founder, Youth for Environmental Sanity (YES!), co-author, Choices for Our Future, and father of twin boys

“As a parent of six children, I found Above All Be Kind [to be] the greatest advice I have ever read about raising children. [It] will not only make you a better parent, it will make you a better human being.”
~ Howard F. Lyman, LL.D., author, Mad Cowboy and President, Voice for a Viable Future

“Above All, Be Kind is one of the most important books in the humane education movement. It is written with clarity, convication, courage, and hope. Hard facts along with deep compassion and heart fill its pages. This book will empower children and adults to act to make this a more peaceful, sustainable, and humane world. No matter how much your day is filled with busy-ness, above all, read this book and share its brilliance.”
~ Mark Bekoff, author of Minding Animals, co-author (with Jane Goodall) of The Ten Trusts: What We Must Do to Care for the Animals We Love.

“Practical and profound, full of real life examples, Above All, Be Kind is a wonderful guide to helping your children to be joyful, self-confident, and caring people.”
~ John Robbins, author of Diet for a New America

“Above All, Be Kind is a lovely book, written in a personal idiom distinguished by insight, common sense, intelligence and love. When I finished reading it I wanted to hug Zoe Weil. You will, too.”
~ John Taylor Gatto, author of Dumbing Us Down

“Above All, Be Kind is hugely thought provoking, inspiring and encouraging. It gives clear, concise direction on what each of us can do. I love this book; it gives me hope. Highly recommended for parents
and everyone who loves children and wants to see them thrive.”
~ Alline Anderson, Manager, Community Bookshelf, Intentional Communities

“Above All, Be Kind is a fantastic book which I think any parent would benefit from (for that matter I think even people without children could benefit from it.) The author, Zoe Weil, has written a book that is not only incredibly thought-provoking, raising fundamental questions about living humanely with our children, the Earth and each other, but also loaded with practical childrearing advice….Zoe does not dictate what we are or are not to do, but rather she encourages us to use our own sense of morality in our choices.”
~ Jaspenelle, Michael and Jaspenelle blog – Read the complete review.

“Above All, Be Kind is my current favorite parenting book.  Zoe Weil is a mother, as well as cofounder and President of the Institute for Humane Education.  She writes with experience and wisdom and the book is well organized and easy to read….I love the way she discusses how parents can become better role models by seriously assessing their own lives, and the choices they’re making every day.  Her words led me to do some serious (and I hope helpful) introspection.
~  Psychmamma - Read the complete review.

“Zoe Weil brings us a book that is insightful and practical….What I loved about this book, was that as an adult with parents who didn’t really help me develop good values, I have learned a great deal that will help me live a more positive life and be a shining example to those around me. I especially liked that throughout the book, the author doesn’t just provide instructions without explanation, she explains how and why the Four Elements work. She also provides so many examples from both her personal life and the lives of others which are wonderful lessons in themselves….This is by far one of my favourite parenting books.”
~ Charlene Martel, The Literary Word blog - Read the complete review.

“This is a book full of practical wisdom, tested in the immediacy of an often overly challenging school environment and also at home. The numerous anecdotes found peppered throughout the book make Weil’s discussions, which are refreshingly simple and clear in themselves, even more tangible and accessible….It is primarily intended for parents but most certainly could serve any reader in his or her self-exploration. My wife considers this to be the most important practical book on education she has ever read, and so do I.”
~ Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D., Alternative Center for Responsible Living – Read the complete review.

“I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to all parents and anyone even considering becoming a parent in the future. It’s never too late to pass the wisdom of compassion and kindness onto our children.”
~ Tammi, Tales of the Tornado Chaser blog – Read the complete review.

“I came away from reading Above All, Be Kind: Raising a Humane Child in Challenging Times feeling like I had useful tools to help my children (and myself) become people who think about the consequences of their actions and who are more fully aware of the world around us. There’s no question that we live in ‘challenging times,’ but Zoe Weil makes that journey a little easier.”
~ Beth H., Smart Family Tips blog – Read the complete review.

“Those parents who want to raise the next generation to be compassionate, caring individuals will want to read this book.”
~ Jacqueline Bodnar, Vegbooks – Read the complete review.