MADISON, Wis. -- John Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist were living the fast life in Chicago when they decided to move to Wisconsin and run a bed and breakfast.

"We wanted to slow things down and get back to self-reliance," Ivanko said.

Now they have written a book on conservation and sustainable living, "Rural Renaissance: Renewing the Quest for the Good Life," which is becoming a national sensation.

The book blends inspiration with practical how-tos, and captures the American dream of country living for contemporary times.

You can meet the authors at a book signing in Madison 7 pm. Thursday at Home Environment, 216 N. Henry St. Call for reservations: (608) 251-4905.

Learn more at RuralRenaissance.org.