The Self-Sufficient Home ~ a Book Review

The Self-Sufficient Home

By Nancy Hoffman

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book to review. All opinions shared are my own.

This book provides an overview of the many aspects of living a more self-sufficient lifestyle. The author gives her readers the basics of a broad spectrum of skills and, in some cases, shares a more detailed look into the self-sufficient home.

Chapter One prepares those just getting started, or thinking about starting, to live more independently. From budgeting, setting financial goals, and dealing with debt, to relationships and taking baby steps toward this way of life, the author offers many helpful words of wisdom for everyone.

Nancy Hoffman goes on to share chapters on Alternate Energy Sources, Growing Your Own Food, Raising Animals, Pest Control, The Self-Sufficient Pantry, Canning and Preserving, Composting, Beekeeping, Essential Household Skills, Tools for Farming and Repairs, and Preparing for Disaster. Each chapter gives great information for anyone new to this way of life and for the seasoned homesteader, too. A wealth of information is stuffed into each section, with a detailed look at how to butcher your own poultry, make your own herbal insecticides, the basics of canning and dehydrating food, growing your own food, and choosing your farm animals.

The one mistake I feel I should mention is that in the information about fertilizers for your garden, the author mixed up 2 of the elements needed and their importance to plants. So please double-check that information with another source before gardening.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and I think most people interested in self-reliance would get some great ideas from it!