If you’re thinking about starting a homestead, you’re stepping into a rewarding journey toward self-sufficiency and sustainable living. Homesteading can help you reduce your reliance on grocery stores, save money, and enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own food and raising animals. But where do you begin? Choosing the right resources can make all the difference. These eight books offer practical advice, inspiration, and step-by-step guidance to help you build your homestead with confidence, no matter your experience level or available space.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: The Backyard Homestead – $14.43
- Best Comprehensive Guide: The Ultimate Backyard Homestead Bible – $23.97
- Best for Beginners: A Modern Guide to Homesteading – $9.99
- Best Budget-Friendly: The Complete No-Nonsense Guide to Homesteading – $13.99
- Best DIY Projects: 40 Projects for Building Your Backyard Homestead – $12.20
- Best Updated Edition: 50 Projects for Building Your Backyard Homestead, Updated Edition – $20.45
- Best Practical Solutions: The Backyard Homestead Complete Guide – $17.97
- Best Traditional Wisdom: The Backyard Amish Homestead Bible – $17.97
How We Selected These Books
We chose these books based on their ability to provide clear, practical guidance for anyone interested in homesteading. We looked for titles that cover a range of topics including gardening, livestock care, sustainable energy, and DIY projects. We also considered reader ratings, the depth of information, accessibility for beginners, and the balance between traditional and modern homesteading techniques. Our goal was to recommend books that will help you start your homestead with realistic expectations and useful knowledge.
The Backyard Homestead
If you’re thinking about starting your own homestead but aren’t sure where to begin, this book is a solid place to start. It breaks down how you can produce a surprising amount of food on just a quarter of an acre, covering everything from growing vegetables and fruits to raising animals like chickens and goats. The instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, with plenty of practical tips that make the whole idea of self-sufficiency feel doable, even if you have a busy schedule. Whether you’re looking to grow your own tomatoes for fresh salsa or want to try your hand at canning and preserving, this guide has you covered in a friendly, no-fuss way.
What People Say
Readers love how this book balances detailed info with an easygoing tone. It’s praised for being a great starting point that doesn’t overwhelm, offering realistic advice for making the most of limited space.
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Absolutely amazing! It has everything you need to know. There is so much information and simple, straightforward instructions on how to do it all!
– Emmily A
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I read this book on my kindle, but I will be getting this in print as soon as possible! Maps, diagrams, charts, recipes, and more. This book has so much helpful info. Plant types, when to plant, how to use… I want to grow more of our food and this book is a perfect resource to help with that!
– Jessica H
How It Fits Your Life
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Limited space in your backyard |
Shows you how to maximize food production on just a quarter acre. |
|
Busy schedule |
Provides straightforward, manageable steps without overwhelming details. |
|
Wanting to preserve food |
Includes easy-to-follow instructions on canning, drying, and pickling. |
|
New to raising animals |
Covers basics of caring for chickens, goats, and bees with clear guidance. |
What You’ll Learn
This book is packed with practical knowledge that helps you understand the essentials of homesteading—from soil preparation and crop rotation to milking goats and making cheese. It’s a great way to build your confidence and skills step by step.
Why You’ll Like It
- Clear, step-by-step guidance for small-scale homesteading
- Covers a wide range of topics from gardening to animal care
- Includes practical tips on preserving and cooking your harvest
- Designed for beginners but useful for experienced gardeners too
Current Price: $14.43
Rating: 4.8 (total: 4,828+)
The Ultimate Backyard Homestead Bible
If you’re ready to take control of your food and lifestyle, this book is like having a friendly guide right by your side. It’s packed with everything you need to start homesteading, whether you have a big yard or just a small patio. You’ll find practical advice on growing your own fruits and veggies, raising chickens and goats, and even preserving your harvest so nothing goes to waste. The step-by-step approach makes it feel doable, not overwhelming, and there are plenty of tips to save you time and money along the way. It’s perfect for everyday living and those moments when you want to impress friends with your homemade honey or fresh eggs.
What People Say
People appreciate how this book breaks down complex homesteading skills into manageable steps. It’s praised for being thorough yet approachable, making sustainable living feel within reach no matter your experience or space.
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This book is a game-changer for anyone dreaming of self-sufficiency. The clear steps on growing organic veggies and raising animals made it easy to get started, even with zero experience. The sections on preserving food have already helped me keep my harvest longer, which is a huge win for my household.
– Emily Robinson
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I’m 60 and thought I was too old to start homesteading, but this book gave me the confidence and practical ideas to begin. It covers everything from small homesteads to full self-sufficiency, and the advice feels realistic and encouraging. Definitely a must-read if you want to make your backyard work for you.
– Pamala Mertsch
How It Works For You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Just starting out with no experience |
Provides clear, beginner-friendly instructions to get you going confidently. |
|
Limited outdoor space |
Shows you how to grow food and raise animals even in small areas. |
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Wanting to preserve your harvest |
Includes easy methods for canning, fermenting, and storing food long-term. |
|
Looking for year-round projects |
Offers DIY ideas and seasonal tips to keep your homestead productive all year. |
What You’ll Learn
This book teaches you the essentials of sustainable living, from planting and animal care to renewable energy and food preservation. It’s a comprehensive resource that builds your skills and confidence, helping you create a homestead that fits your lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love It
- Step-by-step guidance for beginners and seasoned homesteaders alike
- Covers growing food, raising animals, and food preservation
- Includes affordable and practical tips for every season
- Helps you build a self-sufficient lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed
Current Price: $23.97
Rating: 4.7 (total: 143+)
A Modern Guide to Homesteading
If you’re curious about homesteading but feel overwhelmed by where to start, this book breaks it down in a way that feels totally doable. Whether you’re working with a tiny balcony or a larger yard, it offers practical tips on everything from growing your own veggies to raising livestock and even setting up sustainable energy. The author mixes tried-and-true advice with creative ideas, so you get a fresh take on self-sufficiency that fits modern life. It’s great for everyday use, helping you build skills bit by bit, and also handy when you want to dive into bigger projects like food preservation or off-grid living.
What People Say
Readers love how this book makes homesteading feel achievable, even if you’re short on space or time. It’s praised for blending practical advice with inspiring stories, making it easy to connect with the material and apply it to your own situation.
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This book is a refreshing and empowering read for anyone looking to reclaim self-sufficiency in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you’re dreaming of living off-grid or just want to grow your own herbs on a city balcony, this guide covers a wide spectrum of skills with clarity, inspiration, and accessibility. The book strikes a great balance between old-school wisdom and modern practicality. From gardening and raising chickens to food preservation and solar energy (and much more!), each topic is covered with wonderful knowledge and helpful how to info. If you’re interested in sustainability, food security, or simply want to feel more connected to your environment, “A Modern Guide to Homesteading” is a fantastic starting point. It’s supportive and insightful to read the author, Ashley’s personal experiences. It’s the kind of book you’ll keep coming back to—dog-eared, dirt-smudged, and deeply loved! Definitely a must read and a keep handy!
– Alison Beyer
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Ashley is a total pro! This book is well-written and backed up by her wealth of knowledge. She is making homesteading a dream that is accessible to anyone who is juggling life, kids, and careers on top of wanting to pursue homesteading as a way of life. Highly recommend.
– Scott
How It Fits Your Life
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
You’re new to homesteading |
Breaks down complex topics into simple, manageable steps so you can start confidently. |
|
Living in a small space |
Shows you how to maximize limited areas like balconies or small yards for growing food. |
|
Want to save money |
Focuses on affordable DIY projects and practical tips to keep costs low. |
|
Interested in sustainability |
Covers eco-friendly practices like solar energy and rainwater harvesting to reduce your footprint. |
What You’ll Gain
You’ll learn the essentials of homesteading, from planting and animal care to renewable energy and food preservation. The book equips you with knowledge and confidence to create a self-sufficient lifestyle that works for your unique space and schedule.
Why You’ll Find It Useful
- Clear, beginner-friendly guidance that fits into busy lives
- Covers a wide range of topics from urban gardening to livestock care
- Offers budget-friendly and DIY solutions to get started without stress
- Includes practical tips for sustainable energy and food preservation
Current Price: $9.99
Rating: 5.0 (total: 21+)
The Complete No-Nonsense Guide to Homesteading
If you’re ready to take the plunge into homesteading but aren’t sure where to begin, this book makes it feel totally manageable. It covers everything from organic gardening basics to cost-saving strategies and even off-grid projects, all broken down into straightforward steps. Whether you have a backyard, a small farm, or just a balcony, it offers practical advice that fits your space and lifestyle. You’ll find tips on raising animals, harvesting rainwater, and using sustainable energy, plus plenty of ideas to help you live more self-sufficiently without feeling overwhelmed. It’s the kind of guide you’ll want to keep handy as you build your homestead, one project at a time.
What People Say
People appreciate how this book breaks down homesteading into doable chunks without making it feel intimidating. It’s praised for blending practical advice with inspiring ideas that fit a variety of lifestyles and spaces.
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I thought this book was very helpful for people looking to really live off the land. They can use rain water to survive for instance and this book really helps you to learn how it works and how to make it work for you. With the cost of everything getting higher and higher it helps to have a resource like this so that you can learn to live off your land and even harvest and grow your own food for you or your family.
– MissyCool
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This book provided great insight to a topic of no experience to me. My favorite part was the section on sustainable technologies like solar panels and water collection, because it made this book stand out as a game-changer. The author really makes homesteading feel possible for anyone regardless of space or resources. It’s a must-read for those craving a more self-reliant and eco-friendly life.
– @Msrexti
How It Works For You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Just starting out |
Simplifies complex topics so you can build confidence and skills step by step. |
|
Limited outdoor space |
Offers creative solutions for growing food and raising animals in small yards or balconies. |
|
On a budget |
Shares cost-cutting strategies and DIY projects that won’t break the bank. |
|
Wanting to live sustainably |
Explains eco-friendly practices like solar power and rainwater harvesting in an easy-to-understand way. |
What You’ll Learn
You’ll get a solid foundation in homesteading essentials, from growing your own food and caring for animals to setting up renewable energy and managing resources wisely. It’s designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to create a lifestyle that’s both sustainable and suited to your unique situation.
Why You’ll Love It
- Step-by-step guidance that’s easy to follow even if you’re a total beginner
- Covers a wide range of homesteading skills, from gardening to livestock and off-grid living
- Focuses on practical, budget-friendly projects you can start right away
- Includes tips for making the most of small spaces and urban settings
Current Price: $13.99
Rating: 4.5 (total: 59+)
40 Projects for Building Your Backyard Homestead
If you’re looking to roll up your sleeves and create a backyard homestead that’s both practical and rewarding, this book is a solid place to start. It walks you through over 40 hands-on projects like building chicken coops, fences, garden beds, and even solar and wind power setups, all broken down into easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re a total beginner or just want some fresh ideas to make your space more self-sufficient, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here. The instructions are clear, the photos helpful, and the projects designed to fit a range of budgets and skill levels. It’s the kind of book you’ll keep coming back to as you tackle each new build.
What People Say
Readers appreciate how approachable the projects are, with detailed plans that don’t assume you’re an expert. It’s praised for helping people build useful structures that make homesteading feel doable and rewarding.
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This book covers it all for the DIY person who might not have a clue or maybe just a little one. The step-by-step instructions and detailed photos make it easy to follow, and it really helped me build a chicken coop and garden beds without feeling lost. It’s a great resource if you want to get hands-on and save money while doing it yourself.
– savagesam
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I’ve already used advice from this book to build a raised vegetable garden, and the diagrams are excellent. The projects are practical and well-explained, which makes it easier to plan and execute. Looking forward to trying the tool shed next. Definitely a helpful guide for anyone wanting to get started with backyard homesteading.
– W Rigby
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
New to homesteading |
Breaks down projects into manageable steps so you can build confidence as you go. |
|
Want to raise chickens |
Includes detailed plans for coops, runs, and even chicken tractors to get you started. |
|
Interested in sustainable energy |
Covers basics of solar and wind power systems you can build yourself. |
|
Looking for budget-friendly projects |
Uses common materials and simple techniques to keep costs low. |
What You’ll Gain
You’ll learn practical skills for building a variety of homestead essentials, from garden beds and fences to renewable energy setups and beehives. The book gives you the know-how to create a sustainable backyard that fits your needs and grows with you.
Why You’ll Like It
- Clear, step-by-step instructions with plenty of photos to guide you
- Covers a wide variety of projects from fencing to solar power and beehives
- Designed for beginners but useful for anyone wanting practical homestead builds
- Focuses on budget-friendly and easy-to-source materials
Current Price: $12.20
Rating: 4.6 (total: 6,177+)
50 Projects for Building Your Backyard Homestead
Ready to dive into homesteading with some hands-on projects? This updated edition adds 10 new ideas to the original 40, giving you a total of 50 practical builds to tackle. From raised garden beds and chicken coops to solar power setups and even beehives, it covers a lot of ground with clear, step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your homestead, the projects are designed to be doable and budget-friendly. The photos and exploded views make it easier to visualize each step, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. It’s like having a friendly guide right there with you as you build your sustainable backyard.
What People Say
People love how approachable the projects are, making homesteading feel doable even if you’re new to building. The detailed plans and photos help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and give you confidence to create useful structures.
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This book covers it all for the DIY person who might not have a clue or maybe just a little one. The step-by-step instructions and detailed photos make it easy to follow, and it really helped me build a chicken coop and garden beds without feeling lost. It’s a great resource if you want to get hands-on and save money while doing it yourself.
– savagesam
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I’ve already used advice from this book to build a raised vegetable garden, and the diagrams are excellent. The projects are practical and well-explained, which makes it easier to plan and execute. Looking forward to trying the tool shed next. Definitely a helpful guide for anyone wanting to get started with backyard homesteading.
– W Rigby
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Just starting your homestead |
Breaks down projects into easy steps so you can build confidence and skills. |
|
Want to raise chickens |
Includes detailed plans for coops, runs, and even chicken tractors. |
|
Interested in renewable energy |
Covers basics of solar and wind power systems you can build yourself. |
|
Looking for budget-friendly projects |
Uses common, affordable materials and simple techniques. |
What You’ll Gain
You’ll pick up practical skills for building everything from garden beds and fences to renewable energy setups and beehives. The book teaches you how to create a sustainable backyard that fits your lifestyle and grows with your needs.
Why You’ll Like It
- Step-by-step instructions with clear photos and exploded views
- Wide range of projects from garden beds and coops to solar and wind power
- Suitable for beginners but also useful if you want to expand your skills
- Focus on affordable materials and practical designs
Current Price: $20.45
Rating: 3.0 (total: 2+)
The Backyard Homestead Complete Guide
If you’re dreaming of turning even a small backyard or balcony into a productive homestead, this guide makes it feel totally doable. It walks you through growing your own food, raising small animals like chickens and rabbits, and setting up compost systems without getting overwhelmed. The step-by-step approach is perfect if you’re juggling a busy schedule or working with a tight budget. Plus, it’s packed with practical tips to help you avoid common beginner mistakes and save time. Whether you want to slash your grocery bills or create a peaceful outdoor retreat, this book gives you a solid, friendly blueprint to get started and keep going.
What People Say
Readers appreciate how approachable and practical the book is, especially for those new to homesteading. The detailed instructions and illustrations help you feel confident, even if you’ve never planted a seed or raised animals before.
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This book is packed with practical advice, covering everything from growing vegetables and fruits to raising animals and preserving your harvest. What makes it stand out is its easy-to-follow approach—whether you’re a beginner or experienced, the step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations make complex concepts accessible. It also offers valuable insights on maximizing small spaces, proving you don’t need acres of land to be self-sufficient.
– Cynthia Simpkins
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Very informative. Things were explained in a detailed and understandable way. I will definitely be putting some of this into practice. I’m really glad I read this book!
– Karilynn Sanford
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Starting with limited outdoor space |
Shows you how to maximize productivity even on patios or small yards. |
|
Balancing homesteading with a busy schedule |
Offers time-saving hacks so you can fit homesteading into your daily life. |
|
Wanting to raise chickens or rabbits |
Includes beginner-friendly advice on caring for small livestock in suburban areas. |
|
Looking to reduce grocery bills |
Teaches you how to grow fresh, chemical-free food year-round. |
What You’ll Gain
You’ll learn practical skills for growing food, raising animals, and managing a sustainable homestead, all tailored to fit small spaces and busy lives. The book breaks down complex topics into manageable steps, so you can build confidence and enjoy the process.
Why You’ll Like It
- Clear, step-by-step guidance for beginners
- Covers growing food, raising animals, and composting
- Focuses on small spaces like patios and balconies
- Includes time-saving tips for busy lifestyles
Current Price: $17.97
Rating: 4.8 (total: 42+)
The Backyard Amish Homestead Bible
You don’t need a huge farm to start living more self-reliant, and this book really drives that home. It’s packed with practical advice on growing your own food, preserving it, and even making natural remedies—all tailored for small spaces like your backyard or balcony. What’s great is how it breaks down traditional Amish skills into easy steps you can actually fit into your busy life. Whether you want to start canning, build simple off-grid projects, or just learn how to make your own soaps and cleaners, this guide makes it feel manageable and even enjoyable.
What People Say
People love how this book makes homesteading feel doable, even if you’re new to it or living in a small space. The clear instructions and focus on practical skills help you gain confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
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This is such an interesting and informative book. As someone who has been looking into off the grid living for a while, I feel like this book is quite useful and helpful. The Amish lifestyle has always fascinated me and this book shows how to make the lifestyle practical for today’s world.
– Matthew Goetz
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If you want to be more self reliant in these crazy times this is the book for you. Time honored traditions of the Amish are all here. From canning and using herbs for medicine, making soap and cleansers to off grid projects and more. Be prepared for any eventuality.
– Melicia
How It Helps You
|
Situation |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Living in a small apartment or with limited outdoor space |
Shows you how to grow food and make natural products using containers and small raised beds. |
|
Looking to reduce dependence on modern systems |
Teaches you traditional remedies and food preservation techniques to build your own pantry and home apothecary. |
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Wanting to start off-grid projects without expensive gear |
Offers simple, affordable DIY ideas like rainwater collectors and compost bins using easy-to-find materials. |
|
Trying to build daily habits for a more independent lifestyle |
Includes mindset tips and routines that help you stay consistent and motivated. |
What You’ll Learn
You’ll pick up real-world skills for growing, preserving, and living more sustainably, all broken down into manageable steps. The book balances traditional wisdom with modern practicality, so you can start small and build your confidence as you go.
Why You’ll Love It
- Step-by-step guidance for growing food and preserving it in small spaces
- Easy DIY projects for off-grid living without fancy tools
- Natural remedies and homemade cleaners to reduce reliance on store-bought products
- Practical mindset tips to build daily habits for self-reliance
Current Price: $17.97
Rating: 5.0 (total: 52+)
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Homesteading Book For My Needs?
When picking a homesteading book, think about your current experience level and what you want to focus on. If you’re just starting out, look for books that offer clear, step-by-step guidance and cover a broad range of topics like gardening, livestock care, and food preservation. For example, ‘The Backyard Homestead’ is great if you want to learn how to produce a lot on a small plot, while ‘A Modern Guide to Homesteading’ balances traditional wisdom with modern tips, perfect if you want practical, accessible advice. Also, consider your space and budget—some books focus on small urban gardens, others on larger rural setups. Reading reviews can help you find a book that matches your lifestyle and goals.
Are These Books Suitable If I Have Limited Time Or Space?
Absolutely! Many of the recommended books recognize that not everyone has acres of land or unlimited free time. For instance, ‘The Backyard Homestead Complete Guide’ offers practical solutions tailored for small yards and busy schedules, showing you how to maximize your space efficiently. Similarly, ‘A Modern Guide to Homesteading’ includes tips for urban setups like balcony gardens and small plots. The key is to start small and prioritize what fits your lifestyle. These books encourage you to plan realistically, so you won’t feel overwhelmed and can gradually build your homestead at your own pace.
How Can I Use These Books To Avoid Common Homesteading Mistakes?
These books are designed to help you avoid rookie errors by giving you a solid foundation before you dive in. For example, ‘The Backyard Homestead’ provides insights on crop rotation and seed propagation, which are crucial for healthy gardening. Many books also emphasize planning and prioritizing projects based on what you can realistically manage. They often include diagrams, charts, and detailed instructions so you can follow along confidently. Plus, they encourage further research on specific topics once you’ve grasped the basics. Using these resources thoughtfully will save you time, money, and frustration as you build your self-sufficient lifestyle.
Wrapping Up
Starting a homestead can seem overwhelming, but the right resources can guide you every step of the way. These eight books offer a wealth of knowledge, from growing your own food on a small plot to raising animals and managing sustainable projects. Whether you want a comprehensive manual, practical DIY projects, or traditional wisdom, you’ll find a book here to suit your needs. By investing time in learning from these guides, you’ll be better equipped to create a homestead that fits your lifestyle and goals, helping you enjoy greater independence and a closer connection to the land.
| Product | Image | Rating | Highlights | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Backyard Homestead: Produce All The Food You Need On Just A Quarter Acre! |
 |
4.8/5 (1000+ reviews) | Comprehensive guide to self-sufficient gardening and livestock. | In-depth information, practical tips, well-illustrated. | Not an encyclopedia; lacks specific instructions. | $14.43 |
| The Ultimate Backyard Homestead Bible: [5 in 1] The Complete Guide to Sustainable Living |
 |
4.7/5 | Master your mini-farm and achieve self-sufficiency fast. | Great resource for beginners, covers a wide range of topics. | Some sections may be too basic for experienced homesteaders. | $23.97 |
| A Modern Guide to Homesteading |
|
5/5 | Accessible strategies for livestock care and sustainable living. | Empowering read, covers a wide spectrum of skills. | May not go in-depth on every topic. | $9.99 |
| The Complete No-Nonsense Guide to Homesteading |
 |
4.5/5 | Simplified steps for organic gardening and off-grid projects. | Easy to follow, great for beginners. | Lacks depth on advanced topics. | $13.99 |
| 40 Projects for Building Your Backyard Homestead |
 |
4.6/5 | Step-by-step guide for sustainable living projects. | Detailed instructions and project ideas. | Some projects may be too basic for experienced builders. | $12.20 |
| 50 Projects for Building Your Backyard Homestead, Updated Edition |
 |
3/5 | Hands-on guide for self-sufficiency projects. | Variety of projects covered. | Misleading title; fewer projects than expected. | $20.45 |
| The Backyard Homestead Complete Guide |
 |
4.8/5 | Practical solutions for growing food and raising animals. | Comprehensive and easy-to-follow. | May require more space than some readers have. | $17.97 |
| The Backyard Amish Homestead Bible |
 |
5/5 | Master time-honored remedies and canning secrets. | Rich in traditional wisdom and practical advice. | Less focus on modern techniques. | $17.97 |
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