Review: Camping & Cooking and Tents, Oh My!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 26, 2014
I thought this little book was very well done. The author starts at the beginning--i.e., selecting a good campsite, followed by advice on basic equipment such as a tent and sleeping bag. Soon after comes a brief "Word from our Sponsor," which is not too intrusive, and easily skipped over.▲ Mr. Hall gives a good discussion of important things to consider when acquiring a tent, such as size, flooring, "guy lines," and how the tent poles work. (I always thought it was "guide" lines, but now I know better.)  A similar detailed discussion follows on sleeping bags. Both of these sections are clear and well-written. Other equipment is then discussed, including: clothing, cleaning, and personal hygiene.▲ Another good chapter is called "Setting Up Camp."  The author describes starting a fire, and the "fire ring."▲ Okay, now we get to the meat of the matter--Chapter 7, "Cooking."  He introduces the "Chuck Box," which just means a cooking kit. Then, we hear about different techniques and tips about cooking.▲ Perhaps the best section is Chapter 8, "Camping Meals."  First up:  Chili--yea!  Also discussed are easy ways to prepare hot dogs, pancakes, doggie beans s'mores, baked potatoes, campurritos, and more. I admit I don't know too much about how to cook meals when camping, and I thought this information was very helpful--your recipes better be good! I will try some of the recipes next time I go camping; if they're no good, your rating may go down a star ;)▲ Chapter 9 is all about "Fun Camping Activities."  I thought this was thoughful to include. The reader hears about all kinds of sports, games, or just "Chillaxing."▲ One surprising, but creative section is the one right near the end--Chapter 10, "Top Camping Mistakes of Beginners."  This is where the author tells us about "pitfalls" that many campers fall into. Of course, since none of Amazon's readers would make such amateurish blunders, I'm sure you can skim that one quickly.▼ Minor nit--the Table of Contents does not have links; that is, pressing a chapter does not take you there.All in all, a really nice, fun book. Some commonsense ideas, but some original tips also. Recommend!♫ A Review by Chris Lawson