The Self-Sufficiency Handbook by Alan and Gill Bridgewater: Your Complete Guide To A Self-Sufficient Home, Garden, and Kitchen is an eye-opening book that dovetails Walden by Henry David Thoreau and Cottage Economy by William Cobbett, showcasing modern ideas on how to start-over in the country or a "modified" city dwelling to be self-sufficient. Whether creating a garden, an energy efficient home with solar and or wind energy, and an eco-friendly life, this is an easy to read book with colorful illustrations.
"Our particular brand of self-sufficiency is all win-win," says author Alan Bridgewater. "Your hard-earned money stays in your pocket, you are recycling stuff that would otherwise go to waste, and best of all you get to experience the exciting, therapeutic, hands-on skill-stretching challenge of creating something that, but for your resourceful input, would not exist. If you want to have a life-long adventure and enjoy a whole heap of fun along the way, then stay with us."
The Self-Sufficiency Handbook includes common sense ideas on how to ease into your new self-sustaining environment. Suggestions include renting in your dream environment to try it out before cutting all cords to your past. I was interested in this book because I like learning from others that have gone before me. Alan and Gill, husband and wife, apparently raised their young while experimenting with off-the-grid living. They share their gems and life lessons in this interesting easy-to-read book.
Contents include beautiful photographs and recipes for everything from making wine, soap, and edible gardens, raising farm animals and facilitating renewable energy. If you've ever thought about starting over and being self-sufficient in respect to your land, air and pocketbooks, this is your book.
About the Authors
Alan and Gill Bridgewater have gained an international reputation as producers of gardening and DIY books on a range of subjects, including ponds and patios, stone and brickwork, decks and decking, and garden design. They have written a wide range of highly successful books and contributed to several international magazines. They live in Rye, East Sussex.
