Appendix 1 lists 100 genera with specific growing and handling directions and Appendix 2 lists sources for everything mentioned in the book, chapter by chapter. This morning, after watching Bill Gates discuss his new book about the future web-oriented world, it was nice to turn to this book whose contributors still cherished the simpler skills. The letter writers share ideas, techniques, innovations and solutions they've developed for making crafts, meeting household needs, raising animals, using tools, and working in the kitchen and garden. They use safe, natural materials and emphasize recycling. Each letter explains the projects simply and clearly with great line drawings and diagrams where needed.
Writers show how to make gourd instruments, weave baskets, or make a simple pair of boots.
There are recipes for making everything from whitewash, salves, lotions and soaps, to ginger beer and yogurt. The gardening section offers numerous approaches to solving pest, insect and disease problems, increasing garden productivity, and making the work easier. In the tool chapter, writers share advice on making, improving, and taking care of your tools. The same type of practical, yet innovative advice is offered for caring for animals. And for those interested in more daring pursuits, there are instructions for blacksmithing, building cob houses, simple solar hot water heaters, or an invisible storm door.