If you're the type of person who doesn't like to know what hot dogs are made of, perhaps you should skip this book. Because after reading Harvest for Hope, you will never look at food the same way again.

Although perhaps best known as the "Chimpanzee Lady," Jane Goodall has great concern for the state of global agriculture and people's lack of knowledge about the food they eat. In her latest book, Goodall unabashedly tackles controversial topics ranging from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), pesticides and animal factories to global corporations, school food programs and the worldwide water crisis.

Harvest for Hope is a study of how we have twisted one of the most natural things in the world - raising food and eating it -into something both unnatural and unhealthy.

Compelled to enlighten those who only have a hand-to-mouth relationship with food, Goodall discusses some proven dangers of agriculture chemicals and the scientifically undocumented effects of GmOs on our bodies, our food and the Earth.

Farm chemicals seep into soil and waterways, weakening the immune system of dolphins and other aquatic life. They also cause birth defects in amphibians. Goodall also cautions that we do not know the long-term effects on our health or our land from using genetically altered food. And she pulls no punches with section titles such as "Growing Food with Poison," "The Birth of Frankenfoods" and "Disease in the Slaughterhouse."

With great compassion, Goodall champions the plight of small farmers. She explains how monoculture and chemical fertilizers and pesticides have all but ruined the ecosystems of farms, and how this "modern" way of growing crops comes at the physical, financial and emotional expense of the small farmer.

Although a great deal of the subject matter is quite alarming, Harvest for Hope is not all pessimistic. As the title suggest, Goodall provides empowering advice about how we can make a positive difference - in our eating habits, agriculture systems and environment. The hope lies in organic farming, and she encourages us all to get on board. Goodall also peppers her books with poignant vignettes about her childhood, her own relationship with food and her passion for primates.

A compelling and healthy crop of common sense, Harvest for Hope is a must read for anyone who might wonder if we are indeed what we eat. But reader beware, after this book you 'll find yourself suspiciously eyeing the red, ripe tomatoes in your grocer's produce section, wondering what chemicals or genetically modified material you'll be eating with their red, ripe deliciousness.

This article orginally appeared in the July/August 2006 edition of World Ark, the magazine of Heifer International. Reviewed By Sherri Nelson, Heifer Staff Writer. Used by permission.