What does it mean to become and then live as a vegetarian? It might mean nothing at all; or, of course, it might be a step too far for you. Carol Adams has been thinking deeply about vegetarianism for over thirty years in a number of titles that explore feminist theory, critical theory, sexual politics, religion, and environmentalism: all as they relate to the decision no longer to eat animal flesh or use the products of animals.

Now Adams has collaborated with Patti Breitman to explain How to Eat like a Vegetarian Even If You Never Want to Be One. Cutting back on meat but don't know what to serve? Want an easy way to eat healthfully? The lists, charts, and hints in this book will reward you with meals, snacks, and surprises that are as easy to make as they are delicious.

For those who've tried to go vegetarian but have found their own drama, or the pressure of family, friends, and co-workers too much, Donna Beaudoin's Sister Vegetarian's 31 Days of Drama-Free Living is the perfect book. With recipes, life-tips, and an exercise regimen, Donna (a.k.a. Sister Vegetarian) will have you up and running (literally) in no time.

Voices from the Garden takes a different approach to talking about vegetarianism. In fifty stories, people who became vegetarian talk about the reasons why they did so: whether they had a health crisis that propelled them into reflecting on what they put in their bodies; or whether they were concerned about the health of the planet and decided to reduce their consumption of meat and dairy because of the high costs of producing both for the environment; or whether they were moved by the plight of farmed animals and felt they didn't want to be a part of the system that treated them as commodities. Whatever your interest in being or becoming a vegetarian, these books provide numerous insights into what the vegetarian lifestyle means beyond the cookbooks and the fake meat products, and promise a way for you to live a deeper and more authentic life.

Of course, today wouldn't be today unless we mentioned the incredible work of Karen Davis at United Poultry Concerns and the two books she's written for us: More than a Meal: The Turkey in History, Myth, Ritual, and Reality and The Holocaust and the Henmaid's Tale: both of which deal with birds and both of which make a strong case that, at the very least, we should respect these extraordinary animals.

For more on International Respect for Chickens day, click here.