5 comments about The Big Book of Weekend Woodworking: 150 Easy Projects (Big Book of ... Series).

1. I just got started in serious woodworking, and was looking for a good book to get me started with small projects to cut my teeth on. This was it. I've already completed a couple of the items and have more on my to-do list. The drawings are excellent, the instructions are, for the most part, helpful and accurate, and the materials lists are simple and low cost. The bulk of my Christmas gifts this year are going to come from making projects found in this book.
   
   If you or someone you know is just getting started, this is the book to give them for a bunch of great project ideas that will build skills without incurring a bunch of costs.



2. This book has so many projects in it that some are bound to interest you. The problem with books that feature, say 25 projects, is that if you find 10% of them interesting you get 2-3 projects out of the book. This has 150 projects. If you find 10% of them interesting then you walk away with clear instructions and pretty detailed plans for 15 projects. This book is well written and includes sections on finishing and material selection. I own many "project" books. This book outshines them all by a wide margin. Joinery is pretty basic and the projects run from beginner to intermediate, with most of them being the former. One point that I feel compelled to mention, however, is that most projects in this book require a machine (or hand tool) that will cut curves. Just buy it!



3. With 150 projects in the book, you are bound to find at least a couple that you find interesting enough to build. Such is the case with this book. Most of the projects are so-so and are worth a glance or two. I have a list of about 5 projects that I will actually try.
   The designs are clear and the instructions mostly thorough. The one error I did find was easily recovered from (a flip-flop in order of steps in the fanning candleholder).
   I was hoping for about 20-30 projects that would actually be attempted so for that reason I drop the rating to 4 stars. Overall this is a good book that should give the weekend handyman several ideas.



4. i have yet to receive 2 products that i ordered over 2 months ago. i will NEVER use amazon again!!! it deserves 0 stars.



5. I have leafed through a number of project books only to be disappointed with the types of projects that would be offered. Many would be cheesey and not anything you really would find useful or feel comfortable making for another. This book is quite different.
   
   If you have friends and family members that enjoy items of a "Michaels" craft variety, you will definitely find something worth making and giving to them for holidays and other special occasions. If you are a father/grandfather/mother/grandmother who would like to see a young child experience a toy or piece of furniture that is not molded in an asian factory, this book would also be for you.
   
   Joinery for the projects is somewhat varied. Unlike other project books I have looked through, these are not all butt-joints and overly simple (though there are some projects that are very simple for those getting started). The book will not teach you how to paint, cut, or join. It is what it says it is, a book of projects that has ideas, plans, and diagrams. If you are very new to woodworking, I would suggest buying this with another book that teaches the basic woodworking skills necessary to build the projects listed safely.

5 comments about Building Your Own Home For Dummies.

1. I had never purchased a book from this series because I knew I wasn't a dummy and figured them to have little useful advice. But I decided to take a chance on this one since I know nothing about building a home. Big mistake.
   
   This book is a waste of money for anyone who is seriously thinking about hiring a contractor to build a home. There is no useful advice, but rather obvious suggestions such as "you will pay a higher rate on a loan if you don't have a high down payment" etc. - information that any 12-year old could find by searching the web. Save you money and instead purchase one of the many other books written on this subject by architects, contractors, etc.. Trust me, a book like this which is written for a "dummy" isn't one that will be useful to anyone with half a brain.
   
   It was so bad I'm doing something I've never done before - I'm returning it.



2. This book has exhaustive information about building a home employing a general constructor and sub-contractors. It's more useful as a reference. I say that because of the way it's organized. It's not a sequential read, and has no logical beginning or ending. I bought this book hoping to understand each step that goes into building a home. However, this book is NOT about that. It's more about effectively dealing with things that come along in each step.



3. I am always a fan of anything that puts the complexities of the world back into your hands. That Rocket Science for Dummies was totally awesome! LOL!
   
   This is one of many that better be on your shelf as a beginnig research tool, if you are planning on building a home. It tends to be repetitious about needing massive amounts of money though. It is not that creative about any of processes. It is very straight to the point.
   
   I do own it and it is a great reference that I had to MAKE myself read.



4. Very complete and logical in total scope of the custom home building process. Eye opener to a number of potential pitfalls in the custom home building process. wrgBuilding Your Own Home For Dummies



5. Alot of information packed into this one. Very practical, detailed, useful information. Recommend for anyone buying land or a lot, and building a custom home. Read this before you do...

5 comments about Welding Basics.

1. I bought this book for Christmas for my boyfriend. However the book didnt arrive in time but when he got it my boyfriend read it in one day and wants to try and weld together some of the stuff it shown. This is a very good book.



2. I thought this book was worth reading. Yes, I've read the other reviews that said it was too simplified and for idiots but for someone who has never welded, or like me has not welded since high school, it covers the basics. It gives a good comparison of different technologies (Oxy, SMAW, MIG, TIG and plasma) the pros/cons of each. No, this book will not teach you how to weld like a pro but it is a good starting point if you want to learn about the various technologies or trying to decide what type of welder you want or need to get started. The Welder's Handbook (Finch) is also a good beginner's guide.



3. The book provides a basic footing in welding. I simply used the book to develop a working vocabulary before I began learning how to weld.



4. I found this book to have strong basic/beginner information as advertised. Some foggy areas are clearer to me now. The section on welding projects could have been left out and additional instructional materials provided.



5. The book is good for starters. It is a bit vague on the basics but informative. A good starter book.

3 comments about The Self-Sufficiency Handbook.

1. Who wouldn't want to be more self-sufficient? The Self-Sufficiency Handbook is a great guide to living greener. It isn't just a fad; it is a way of living that is becoming increasingly popular. With the modern times, it is important that we protect our world, and this book is a great way to start living green.



2. In these times of international and domestic unrest, rampant increases in food and fuel prices and general discontent, the thought of leaving the rat race and setting up a small farm doubtlessly has appeal to nearly all of us. Before you do so however, I strongly recommend that you read this book. The authors having been living a self-sufficient lifestyle for decades and are well qualified to share their experience.
   
   The book covers a wide range of topics and while certainly not exclusive (there have been entire books written on areas which they cover in a few pages) they do provide a nice overview of topics such as location selection, alternate energy options and water supplies as well as tasks such as home soap making, candle making, beer and wine making etc. The greater portion of the book is devoted to crop growing and a wife variety of crop choices and planting styles are covered. The specific care needs of each plant are covered as are harvesting requirements. The raising of farm animals, including though not limited to cows, chickens, goats, ducks and pigs are also discussed. Most helpful I think are the A-Z checklists for various herbs and crops and the "Planning the Year Calendar" which outlines the various farm related activities which must be done throughout the year.
   
   While the Bridgewaters are residents of England and their book has a somewhat UK centric focus their helpful address section has many American companies and their advice is readily applicable to prospective self-sufficient types in the USA.



3. This book was everything it promised and more. I really enjoyed each section, even those for which I had no immediate plans. There is A LOT of information here that looks handy, including construction and retrofitting tips for your home and great recipes for household goods and preserving the bounty of your garden for future use. The best part is that they approach self-sufficiency as a lifestyle, not a fad or a DIY weekend warrior project. Therefore, their attitude toward simple living without hardship is reflected in every word. Add the fact that the whole book can be covered in a day or two, and I cannot recommend this book enough.

5 comments about A Place of My Own: The Education of an Amateur Builder.

1. this book is elegantly written, erudite and entertaining. I'd recommend it highly both to the carpenter who would like to know more about the ancient roots of construction and to the armchair traveller types. It examines the dynamic between builder, client and architect in a manner reminicient of but definitely different from the classic Tracy Kidder "House".



2. ... this book is much too wordy and self-consciously "word-crafted." A Place of My Own: 3 stars.
   
   I have loved his other books: The Botany of Desire in particular. He is an excellent writer and great to listen to in a radio interview. However, this book, it seems to me, was written for his former colleagues in the "word industry" as a proof that he can write more intricately structured sentences, more erudite vocabulary, more commas generally THAN YOU CAN!!
   
   I began reading the book with great hopes, and I hate to rate any of his books less than a 5; but I immediately bogged down. It has overly complicated, assertively complicated, prose. It has an immensity of nested clauses delimited by a blizzard of commas. I started looking for a sentence without a comma. I couldn't find one for at least a page and a half. Immensely long, self-consciously crafted sentences. Nothing is just a thing: It's possibly the strangest, most meaningful thing, except that his wife, when in the kitchen, though not generally not on Tuesdays, used to enunciate, with a wry expression on her lips -- a rather inappropriate expression I thought, that it was the opposite of the physical object, in spite of Plato and Aristotle, because her cabalistic, pernicious, atavism. (You get the style?) I think he was trying impress himself that his life, decision to write full time and his little studio were worthwhile. To me, it's navel-gazing at its worst.
   
   If you like the kind of sentence I parodied above (though trust me, it's not that much of a parody) you will like this book. Otherwise, not. As noted, I like Michael Pollan. I could not read this. Thank goodness for his more recent books.
   
   [edited for spelling and grammar 28FEB08]



3. First, I enjoyed reading this book. I'm a carpenter turned cabinetmaker that aspires to build spec homes per my own designs, from bottom to top. Given my existing interest in the field, I most enjoyed his discussion of the various architectural movements and the philosophies thereof. It provides a broad overview of different theories of design and how they result in pleasing (or not so pleasing) structures.
   
   However, he definitely goes overboard - especially with the obnoxious use of esoteric vocabulary. Synecdoche? I'm pretty well read and I don't think I've ever even seen that word written before. It goes on and on like that, and it's unfortunate because it really distracts you from what's otherwise a pretty interesting read. He also seems to slip into a bit of stream of consciousness about the theory behind some detail of construction or another (like muntins). Be prepared.
   
   It was also tiring to read about the conflict between the architect and the builder. If it was indeed as tense as he claims, then he's probably in large part to blame, getting wrapped up in the drama (which I believe he does).
   
   Overall I gave it a 3, because it definitely provided a lot of good information. But I was dragging by the end, and it really felt like once he hit his quota of pages he just stopped. He takes you all the way through the process of construction, but doesn't tell you how it ends. How's the building feel? What worked and what didn't? Is it great in the spring with the windows open, or is it too buggy? Freezing in the winter? By dropping 30 pages of theory and putting in an equal amount of reality it would have made this book a real winner.



4. I love this book because Michael allowed me to feel I could build a place of my own, and because I experienced the process so thoroughly and vicariously through him, I probably won't. I loved reading of the balancing of reality and desire, of architect, builder, and setting. I am amazed at what Michael is able to do, and I savor and share his rightful pride in being able to do so. I appreciate my own home more and view other structures with more curiosity as a result of reading this book. Michael entertains, and makes the process of home-building accessible to any one of us. I sit and look at the cover, wanting a little home of my own, and, as I say, I feel satisfied with what he has built, and the creation of my own little nest within a home that is already mine. And if I change my mind, he is here as guide.



5. Wonderful, wonderful book. I am inspired to find some land and build my own little haven... I guess that makes this the most expensive book I've ever bought.

4 comments about Be Your Own House Contractor.

1. This book contains a lot of great tips and serves as a good resource.



2. This book really opened my eyes as to how much was involved in building/being your own contractor. The author obviously speaks from experience.



3. Very up-to-date publication. Author's web site provides much additional information. I plan to build using ICF's and Geothermal heat source. Good information available through both the book and the web portal. Clearly the best and most current of the 4 similar books purchased at the same time.



4. Be Your Own House Contractor: Save 25% without Lifting a Hammer
   I have read several books on this subject. This one offered the best information for the beginner. I would recommend this book for anyone considering building their own home.

5 comments about Green Remodeling : Changing the World One Room at a Time.

1. I read the book from start to finish but found myself skipping over many passages of repeated information. Although the information provided was useful, the same exact info. is rehashed many times in the same chapter and throughout the book. The book format may have something to do with that with it's many recaps and review.
   
   Good basic introduction to the green industry with much information.



2. this book was well written and fairly clear, even to me as a building novice. i was fairly disappointed, though, at how many of the green approaches seemed to focus on expensive, high-tech commercial green materials. i was hoping for a lot more on how to integrate traditional and very basic do-it-yourself techniques such as recycling used materials, mud plastering, simple greywater systems, and so on into existing buildings. in the end, i could hardly use any of the information in this book because i couldn't afford the materials. if you have the money, though, and are hoping for a very polished and professional look, you will probably enjoy this book.



3. A good reference book for any contractor new to green building.
   
   Explains the basics of indoor air pollution and how to choose different building materials that are both "green" and healthy. Broken down into different sections, i.e., the kitchen and bathroom for example makes it an easy to follow guide. The check-lists at the end of each chapter offer an easy way to make sure you've considered everything with the project.
   
   
   Dan Stih, author of Healthy Living Spaces: Top 10 Hazards Affecting Your Health.



4. As a recent Interior Design graduate I was looking for books to remodel the interiors of homes in a "green", sustainable way. I ordered this book but upon inspection found it to be more suited for an owner/builder. I ordered "Good Green Homes", by Jennifer Roberts as well and found it to be similar in that it would appeal more to owner/builders/architects.



5. Great book, covers vast majority of important topics, and written by ex-contractor with real-world experience and building knowledge. Def recommend.

5 comments about Pyrography Workbook: A Complete Guide to the Art of Woodburning.

1. A wonderful book that teaches a beginner so many things! I cannot wait to start working with it!!!



2. I only did some pyrography when I was very young, and the patterns were already on the boards.
   
   I found the beginner patterns to be more advanced, in my opinion. (However, I haven't burned the copied one on my board, as yet. If I find time, it's ready to go!)
   
   I think I need something even more beginner oriented, as far as patterns go.
   
   Overall, there is a LOT of GREAT information in this book that's helped me decide on a burner, wood types to use, etc.
   
   I'm happy with the book.



3. Great book for beginners and experts with many ideas and tips Highly recommend it to others



4. A complete and detailed book, with a lot of necessary technical info and tutoring for beginners and advanced. Nice touch are the beautifull step by step examples you can make at the end of the book. If you plan to buy only one book on pyrography, this is it!



5. This book is excellent for someone starting in the art of pyrography. It covers all you need to know about techniques and the art and gives great examples of each . Deloy Robert Moore Artist

5 comments about The Concealed Handgun Manual: How to Choose, Carry, and Shoot a Gun in Self Defense (Concealed Handgun Manual: How to Choose, Carry, & Shoot a Gun in Self Defense).

1. I have read several books about concealed handguns and thought that this is one of the best. It has more detail than most others and I liked that.



2. This excellent manual gives precise details to American citizens in exercising their 2nd Amendment Civil Rights during a criminal or even terrorist attack. This book is comprehensive and includes information on:
   *Regulations
   *Shooting Instructions - Beginner to Advanced
   *Case Studies about concealed carry action
   *Safety Regulations and methods
   
   This book is like a mini-course in and of itself. You can learn about selecting a handgun, the duty of self-defense and also methods of concealing a weapon. In addition, as I teach martial arts, I tell people that the most important weapon is Your Mind. Don't get involved in any dangerous encounters if you can avoid them. Ultimately, the taking of a human life - for people with a conscience - is a life-altering and difficult experience. It can be traumatic because it is a situation that few wish to experience - unless it involves saving your life and your loved ones from criminals.
   
   Michael Mandaville, Author:"Citizen Soldier Handbook: 101 Ways for Every American to Fight Terrorism"



3. This book is a must read for all gun owners especially if you are thinking about getting a CCW license. This is also a good book to send to people that are anti-gun. After reading this book the anti-gun people might change their minds about guns. I sent this book to my sister who hates guns.



4. I just received this book yesterday and have already read most of it. A very interesting and informative book that is hard to put down. As previous reviewers have written, this is a "must read" for anyone considering a handgun for personal defense. The book I ordered and received is fifth edition, published in 2008, so updated conceal/carry laws for each state are included.
   
   I enjoyed reading this book so much, I have ordered the author's other book, "Thank God I had a Gun."



5. Another great book by Chris Bard. Remembering that he is from the U.K. and that he moved here many years ago should strike a cord in your thoughts about him and his books. His perspective on guns, gun control, gun rights, concealed carry etc. are open and absolute. He comes from a country where what we take for granted has long been removed from personal rights and where if you defend yourself you end up in prison with longer prison terms than the person(s) who attacked you. This book covers just about every aspect of concealed carry as well as what to do after you have to defend yourself. I couldn't put it down! Highly recommended for all those who believe in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights we "cling to". Not for those who want Obama to lead them into total control and socialism.

5 comments about Christmas With Southern Living 2007 (Christmas With Southern Living).

1. This is another great cookbook/idea book from Southern Living. I haven't made any of the recipes yet, but I make something every year from the current year's book. They have all been awesome. I get great compliments on my cooking when using Southern Living recipes, especially the cakes.



2. My daughter checked this book out from our local library. I think is so good I am ordering 4 copies, one for myself and one for each of my sister and sisters-in-laws. This book is full of EASY adorable, doable Christmas decorating and presentation ideas. The wrapped boxes are at my front door, and the cookies on a stick were a hit with the children at their Christmas party.



3. I am so, so sad about this book, it's taken me a day to write this. I have come to depend on what I call my 'secret weapon' i.e. Southern Living for surprisingly innovative and always reliable recipes over the years. Their other Christmas editions and even the Homemade Holidays book are my stand bys this time of year.
   
   I can't even believe they put their name on this. For one - where are all the recipes? It seemed decorating (and I'm sorry - I just don't see the need for 200 'tablescape' options...) took precedence over the food this year. And even worse - of the recipes there, two chapters were dedicated to my LEAST favorite topics involving food at this time of year - "Healthy" and "Express." Honestly to see a cake recipe using already made store bought cheesecake almost brought tears (of sorrow, not joy) to my eyes. Any other time of year, maybe (although that's not what I look to Southern Living for) but NOT the holidays! It's the time to dazzle and forget about all our normal worries and restrictions.
   
   I had read the other reviews stating it wasn't up to par, but just couldn't believe them. If only I had... This copy will probably be headed to my local resale shop.



4. Year after year Southern Living produced fantastic Christmas books... until this year. The decorations were gaudy and the Cowboy Christmas section was ghastly.



5. I purchased this edition in late spring 2008, so I received a great, low price on the book. I did the same with the 2006 edition last year and have been pleased with each. There are numerous recipes that are worthwhile and I primarily use the Christmas edition for the baked goods and candy recipes and give them away as gifts. So far no complaints from any recipients!! Decorating tips spark enough interest to try and adapt one or two of the ideas for the holidays. Will continue to purchase yearly.