Book review, Consumed by Aja Barber

This review is for the only book I have ever pre-ordered. And that was a few years ago now, so you're probably wondering why I am writing the review so long afterwards.

When I love something, I save it. Whether this is a nice packet of biscuits, the ending of favourite series or a book I love, I will save things for when I might really need it (biscuits) or saving a book ending for when I am most cosy. So here we are, after I started Consumed in 2021, and decided to hoard the ending, holding onto this book for as long as possible. And as long as possible was recently. I was ready to finish it.

Consumed by Aja Barber is a must read, not only for those living sustainably (at all levels) but for everyone. It is absolutely beautifully written- I read it in Aja's voice throughout. It touches on very important topics across multiple themes. Although much of Aja's work is about fashion, this book is about consumption overall, and although I am a very conscious consumer, this book absolutely inspired me to dig deeper.

Aja's writing style is easy to follow and personable, not always a given with books in this genre. It's an easy read, although the books content it's always comfortable. This book will make you address uncomfortable truths, in the best way possible. This book inspired me, not to chuck everything out and restart, but to reassess. To use up, to use until the end of a products life (including my ancient fast fashion items), to think long term. Not just for myself but for others.

There were moments I was YESSSS-ing whilst reading this in waiting rooms. There were moments of OMG I totally agree, with similar threads of things I have also written. But there were times I was shocked and have vowed to learn more.

Of the whole book, I loved the ending the most. I don't want to give too much away, for your sake, as I truly truly hope you read Consumed by Aja Barber, as I really do think it's an absolute must read. I will be recommending it for those starting out to those well established in the trenches. Everyone can learn from Aja.