In Lifting the Yoke, Ron Krupp seeks to tell the story of America’s industrial agriculture and to suggest solutions to the problems it has created. To build his case, Krupp divides the results of his extensive research into small chunks, accented with bold, eye-catching headlines. For example, in a section called “The Battle of the Bulge,” he highlights issues such as “An Agri-Culture of Corn,” “Pot Pies, Faux Foods and TV Dinners” and “Junk Food Politics as Usual.”

The best parts of Lifting the Yoke tell the stories of businesses that have defied the odds and become successful while pursuing sustainability. Locals will particularly enjoy seeing familiar enterprises mentioned, such as Claire’s Restaurant, City Market, and Nutty Steph’s. Krupp offers meditations that tie such innovative efforts to Vermont’s history and natural endowments.