For a Green, this is like taking a political bath: all the add-ons to Green policy stripped away and a chance to glance the pure ideology at its core.

Petra Kelly was one of the founding group of the Green Party and in this book, she pours out heart, as well as her political ideas. One of the things which still resonates within the Green Party is a feeling of love and care, not just for those with whom we agree, but all mankind. It is clear that this was an important founding principle, as were the more publicised concerns for the care of the planet and taming of nuclear proliferation.

In the almost thirty years since this book was published, it is depressing to note how little has been done about these issues, although, the Green movement has grown and still goes from strength to strength. Of course, there are areas in which the book shows its age, but Kelly still speaks to us over the years. An example of this is particularly relevant in Britain at the time of my reading: talk is growing of possible electoral pacts with other socialist parties. this is being lead by a frustrated group who want power now (and with the state of the planet, who can blame them?) but Kelly warns us that, "As Greens, it is no part of our understanding of politics to find a place in the sun alongside the established parties, nor to help maintain power and privilege in concert with them".

This book is a must read for any serious Green supporter and a thoroughly thought provoking read, whatever your beliefs. ( )