Adherents to the New York Times bestseller list are aware of agriculturalist writer, Michael Pollen. The famous author graced the UVM campus yesterday just in time for the release of his new book "In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto."

The author praises Vermont for heading the local food movement, personal farming, and supporting small organic farms. He even described Vermont residents as "more sophisticated" for the reception of his message.

Some of Pollen's suggestions for sustainability are not only insightful, but more often than not there is truth to his "Commandments for Living." Many UVMers were excited to attend the event. There was almost no room to spare in the space provided.

Pollen's new novel is a hands on approach to better living. The debate-at-large is the suggestion of dieting tips versus tips for eating well. There are those who believe that eating well is equivalent to dieting, but this is not the case. Leading a healthy lifestyle with food is much more enriching than cutting carbs and denying the body true nutrients; this is the crux of Pollen's argument in the new book and throughout his published works.