Radical Matter is a compendium of case studies celebrating the creativity of disruptive approaches to alternative systems of production. With more than 60 fully illustrated, somewhat eclectic examples, Franklin and Tell (cofounders of a multidisciplinary design, research, and trend-forecasting consultancy based in London) pave the way toward a more sustainable material future. The volume comprises eight chapters, and together they inspire and inform innovative ways of making and seeing. The authors showcase radical approaches, extraordinary visions, parallel practices, even the exploitation of extreme waste. The case studies range the world over. The authors make a strong case for rejecting old assumptions about materials and objects and reimagining materials and process to provide for a more sustainable future. Summing Up: Recommended. All readers.

--R. P. Meden, Marymount University

Robert Paul Meden

Marymount University

This imaginative book offers many alternatives to the standard "take-make-discard" model of processing virgin materials to manufacture consumer goods. Coauthors Franklin and Till, partners of the London-based research and design FranklinTill Studio, set forth eight sections that address: reusing waste streams, minimizing byproducts, making with detritus, making as community connection, digital fabrication on demand, truly disposable products, living materials, and future mining. Each chapter begins with an essay by a designer or academic. Sixty case studies offer brief descriptions, photos, and website addresses for projects or organizations. Attractive objects include construction materials, furniture, housewares, textiles, jewelry, and sculpture. A radical aspect is the revelation of humble source materials, such as algae, bioresins, cellulose, dung, dust, flax, fungus, glass, hair, newspapers, plastic, sand, seaweed, straw, or wire. Ingenious design and production largely overcome any "ick" reaction. "Making workshops" using common, discarded, or recycled materials are promoted for creating communities and livelihoods among disadvantaged groups. The Internet and 3-D printing allow customized production on demand, reducing redundant inventory. VERDICT This remarkable survey highlights possibilities for more sustainable living. Designers, materials specialists, and environmentalists will find inspiration.—David R. Conn, formerly with Surrey Libs., BC