Back to Basics: A Complete Guide to Traditional Skills (Back to Basics Guides) Hardcover – Illustrated, October 14, 2014

I ordered the hardback book because, well, I wanted it. Lol It's FULL of everything I could ever want to know about "how to" and DIY on the subject of Back To Basics.It covers so many subjects I can't list them all here, with thorough details, instructions, illustrations, and pics. The subjects range from how to build your own house; beekeeping; raising meat, milk animals; soap making; quilting; and building furniture. So very interesting and helpful. Well written and presented, and easy to understand. Excellent instructional book for those who enjoy diy's or just simple/smart common sence knowledge on self-reliance. Brilliant.

I love this book. It's so full of excellent information and instructions.

I am pleasantly surprised by the volume of topics and the completeness of the instructions! What I did know was nice to see put in logical order, and what I didn't know, I could picture running through it step by step. The illustrations were very helpful and the recipes included all looked so good! The herbal remedies section was a decent intro but I was sad to see mullein left out of the cold remedies (nothing clears the lungs like mullein) and ear ache remedies (mullein flower). I still learned something from this section though. Overall a great read and a wonderful addition to the library.

A bit old-fashioned, but gives a lot of information how to survive without the common benefits of modern society.

This book is a welcome addition to my growing library of homesteading and "the old ways" of doing things. I first discovered this book around 2010 or so from the local library (at that time, this would have been the 3rd edition). There are many familiar illustrations, but the author has also added updated photos for some portions, plus included modern conveniences a homesteader may still rely on, such as the internet, when running their household or business. This latest update was in 2014, and yes, I would say that the real estate market has changed so much, making it difficult to find affordable farmland or that cabin in the woods. But it is not impossible.The book is divided into categories: Shelter, Energy, Raising Food, Preserving Food, Home Crafts, and Recreation. While different activities are illustrated or contain step-by-step instruction, I would still consider this book an introduction to these aspects of homesteading or simple living. My husband and I are enjoying reading it and letting it spark conversation for our current pantry preparedness as well as future homesteading plans.

I can't say enough good things about "Back to Basics: A Complete Guide to Traditional Skills." This book is an absolute treasure trove of knowledge! Whether you're into gardening, woodworking, or just want to learn some old-school skills, this guide covers it all. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making even the most daunting tasks seem manageable. I love how it combines practical advice with a genuine appreciation for self-sufficiency. It's been incredibly satisfying to try out different projects and see the results. Plus, the illustrations and photos are really helpful. If you're interested in getting back to your roots and learning some valuable, hands-on skills, this book is a must-have. Highly recommended!

This is more that Basics!! It's what they need to teach in schools, homes, and Farms. This would make life much more effective and affordable ,by teaching D.I.Y. and basic common sense techniques and skills. Wow! You all Rock! Summit this amazing book to schools worldwide, of course you can up date some techniques,and photos. But All books do this. Practically helps Man / Women and family stay together! By working together and building on they lives! YouGo!!!

Excellent book! So much information it's crazy! Explained very well! Good pictures!! Must have for any property owner or person wishing to expanded their knowledge of very useful information that will help in no power situations, to off-grid living, to regular conventional living!