Koncocoo

Best Woodworking

Good Clean Fun: Misadventures in Sawdust at Offerman Woodshop
After two New York Times bestsellers, Nick Offerman returns with the subject for which he's known best—his incredible real-life woodshop. “ Good Clean Fun has helped me discover new ways to have fun in the shop… If Offerman’s goal is to expose a wider audience to the world of woodworking, he’s hit the nail on the head. “Offerman offers detailed projects, shop tips, and tricks, wider reflections on his career and craftsmanship…Offerman really loves wood.
Reviews
"Most of these articles you skim, get inspired with techniques and design elements, and apply those to your own projects. You should be warned however that some of the projects here are going to come off as a bit precious for an older experienced woodworker, but then, many of the projects are going to be approachable and exciting to younger and inexperienced woodworkers."
"Inspirational book -- Even if you don't build any of the beautiful projects."
"This book is great so far."
"This is a great read regardless of if you are into woodworking as a hobbies, maker, professional or consumer."
"I like the writing and the stories very much...The book if very well written...but I was looking for more actual woodworking projects and the ones in the book just weren't that interesting to me."
"his philosophy is great and its a funny read."
"Christmas gift for my father in law who enjoys wood working."
"Well written, very entertaining, humorous but incredibly informative."
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The Complete Manual of Woodworking: A Detailed Guide to Design, Techniques, and Tools for the Beginner and Expert
With more than 1,800 drawings, diagrams and photos, this authoritative guide encompasses the whole art and craft of woodworking.
Reviews
"Gives information on furniture construction, the names of tools and how to use them, and finishing."
"This is a great book to have to matter how new or experienced you are in carpentry."
"Excellent source of information, good photos, a wealth facts."
"Very comprehensive guide."
"Great book with a ton of information."
"Artistic and cool looking but at times distracts the reader Some of the type fonts are a bit tiny for more "mature" eyes."
"Good workbook for an amateur wood worker around the house."
"Reads a bit like a textbook, but that was expected."
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One Man's Wilderness: An Alaskan Odyssey
to roam a wilderness through which few other humans has passed . Thousands have had such dreams, but Richard Proenneke lived them. Keith based the text on the journals and photography of Richard Proenneke, who, after racking up years of 50-hour work weeks, did what many of us only fantasize about: he chucked it all and went to live in the woods.
Reviews
"Read how Richard Proenneke built his cabin by hand and thrived (mostly alone) in the bush. What This Book Is: - An important introduction to Richard Proenneke's story. - Heavily edited (I would even say rewritten). - A pleasant, easy read (goes great with the 2-part documentary that airs on PBS). - Easy to get your hands on very quickly. What This Book Is Not: - Richard Proenneke's authentic journals, in his OWN words. - Proenneke's story told in his own voice. I was captivated after watching the 2-part PBS documentary, "Alone in the Wilderness". Bottom Line: - I would rate this book ("One Man's Wilderness") 3.5 stars if I could. - I would rate "The Early Years" 5 stars, hands down. - I recommend this book as an easier, quicker read."
"I have been to Alaska and my family made memories we will tell for the rest of our lives, the desire to go back and explore more is a fire that's been fully ignited."
"I was telling my husband about this book as I started reading it. There is nothing dull about this book and I suspect the people who find it dull haven't any interest in living in the wilderness without Blackberries, i-pods, automobiles and restaurants."
"I've read it a couple of times."
"Not because it has a sad ending, I was just sad to no longer share in the adventure."
"Dick could fabricate or make virtually everything he needed...pots and pans out of gas can tins, forks and spoons out of stump wood, tables, chairs, bunk beds, even wooden hinges!"
"If you have never traveled to remote Alaska, you will want to after reading his book."
"A very special book by a very special author."
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Best Furniture & Carpentry Crafts

The Handbuilt Home: 34 Simple Stylish and Budget-Friendly Woodworking Projects for Every Room
It's easy to build inexpensive, quality furnishings with this indispensible collection of woodworking projects from Ana White, the popular blogger who has inspired millions of homemakers with her stylish furniture plans and DIY spirit. If so, White cheers you on…You can use this book to build 34 simple designs, such as tables (including a Lego coffee table), chairs, beds, and benches. Author and blogger White (ana-white.com), who first built furniture during her newborn's naptime, still remembers her fear of firing a nail gun.
Reviews
"This book is simply the gateway to a world of awesome projects."
"This book has all the plans you need."
"I purchased this book to help me get started with the most essential tools and supplies."
"I've always been a creative person but most of my projects went to customers, like draperies, or as gifts to family,like machine embroidery and thread crocheted christening gowns."
"I just received this book over the weekend and have yet to make project yet."
"My husband is and experienced contractor/builder, and I have the advantage of his skills to help me, but I am sure with a lot of study and review of the plans, I would still be able to build the projects here even if neither of us had ever built before. Ana's inspiring story is also featured in this book, I read that over a couple of times - it is another confidence builder."
"Lacking confidence held me back for way too long and Ana's clear, concise and often humorous blog posts and now her book helped me build up the courage to start building at almost 60 years old!"
"I found her blog months ago and learned so much of the basics from it, but I didn't actually start building until I got this book in my hands. Where most "beginner" builder books start at easy plans, she starts out at the actual beginning."
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Best Woodworking Projects

The Complete Manual of Woodworking: A Detailed Guide to Design, Techniques, and Tools for the Beginner and Expert
With more than 1,800 drawings, diagrams and photos, this authoritative guide encompasses the whole art and craft of woodworking.
Reviews
"Gives information on furniture construction, the names of tools and how to use them, and finishing."
"This is a great book to have to matter how new or experienced you are in carpentry."
"Excellent source of information, good photos, a wealth facts."
"Very comprehensive guide."
"Great book with a ton of information."
"Artistic and cool looking but at times distracts the reader Some of the type fonts are a bit tiny for more "mature" eyes."
"Good workbook for an amateur wood worker around the house."
"Reads a bit like a textbook, but that was expected."
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Best Woodworking Tools

Remodel: Without Going Bonkers or Broke
In fact, that's the single biggest reason that there are so many remodeling horror stories. You will learn how to identify and select the perfect professional remodeler for your project, save thousands of dollars in the process, and preserve your sanity too. Everything needed for a successful professional remodeling experience is inside! It will spare you from 'horror story' results, because you'll avoid the three critical remodeling mistakes (a savings easily worth tens of thousands).
Reviews
"In this easy reading instructional manual, Jim Molinelli lays out a concise method for keeping sanity during a remodeling project."
"Jim’s book is full of great information that guides you through the process from beginning to end."
"Undoubtedly THE book to get even if you think you might possibly sometime in the future hypothetically consider remodeling."
"Great book and well done."
"I'd have saved a lot of money and made a lot more when I sold."
"This book gives guidance on how to find reputable contractors (and it's not by using the popular advertised sites)."
"As a women owning 2 homes there is always something to fix, never mind remodeling to just update!"
"Very, Very informative."
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Best Power Tools

Cool Tools: A Catalog of Possibilities
Cool Tools is a highly curated selection of the best tools available for individuals and small groups. It's a habit he learned while editing and publishing the Whole Earth Catalog , the bible of counterculture do-it-yourselfers who wanted in 'tools and ideas for the 21st century.'". "Stewart Brand said that Cool Tools had captured the spirit of the Whole Earth Catalog but without taking on a counterculture and back-to-the-land philosophy. "Jeff Bezos is a fan of e-mail newsletters such as Cool Tools , a compendium of technology tips and product reviews written by Kevin Kelly, a co-founder of Wired ."
Reviews
"So in addition to hand jacks that can raise 7000 lbs., the Teeny Turner (a pocket sized driver), portable band saws, and laser measuring tools, you can find the best source on how to buy a car cheaply, make a low-budget movies, brew your own beer, rear an optimistic child, design a logo, win a fight, soak in feral (!). hot springs, learn to swim efficiently, prepare for a natural disaster, vagabond the world, do something dangerous (and live to tell about it), run for local office and win, go solar on your roof, or (a great boon to Boomers) remember anything."
"This carries me back to my childhood pouring over electronics magazines or the Aircraft Spruce and Specialty catalog imagining what I could do if I combined and use the right parts and tools."
"The categories are wide ranging, from cooking, crafts, learning, music, family, electronics and more. There's certain to be some area of immediate interest, but half the fun is the insight into the tools of the trade of some activity you may never have considered like beekeeping or world travel on a shoestring budget. (Disclosure--I received an early copy because a review I contributed years ago to the site was included in the book, but I'll be ordering more copies."
"I've learned about many 'cool tools' I've never heard about and I've bought several items based upon the recommendations in this book, " Veganomicon" "Glorious One- Pot Meals" "FitBit" and " Ultimate Fit or Fat"- and this is the part that makes this catalog so much fun to read and look at - You'll see many reviews on items you've never heard of before, such as, (for me) "Ideo Method cards" , used for brainstorming or "Making Books that Fly, Fold, Wrap, Hide, Pop up, Twist and Turn" or find reviews for an item you would like to purchase, but haven't had the time to do the research to find out which one is the best."
"I've was considering getting this book as a gift for my father as he and I both love this kind of stuff, but he's not the type of person to check out a website regularly."
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Best House Plans

Tiny House Design & Construction Guide
This is the expanded, 2nd edition of the Tiny House Design & Construction Guide. Dan Louche is the owner of Tiny Home Builders.
Reviews
"I am an experienced carpenter and I learned a LOT including techniques specific to Tiny Houses. A lot of carpenters can build a house on a trailer, but will not think of what it takes for it to GO DOWN THE ROAD, ( ie- the tongue weight of vehicle, towing weight, how to bolt it to the trailer, strap it down, best support configuration of trailer and why, etc.). (I also learned that he is now offering a place to build your tiny house if you don't have enough room or are forbidden to build one in your yard.)."
"Gave to my son-in-law for his birthday."
"This has been by far the best resource to date in our Tiny House planning process."
"Not certain all recommended building techniques are the best."
"Good information to have on the ready while drawing up different floor plan designs."
"I think this book is a good overview of what to expect to encounter when you're building a tiny house."
"the best book on the subject I could find."
"Very,Informative..Really Enjoy Reading The Book..Gave,Me Some Ideas On How To Build My Tiny House.."
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Best Hand Tools

Cool Tools: A Catalog of Possibilities
Cool Tools is a highly curated selection of the best tools available for individuals and small groups. It's a habit he learned while editing and publishing the Whole Earth Catalog , the bible of counterculture do-it-yourselfers who wanted in 'tools and ideas for the 21st century.'". "Stewart Brand said that Cool Tools had captured the spirit of the Whole Earth Catalog but without taking on a counterculture and back-to-the-land philosophy. "Jeff Bezos is a fan of e-mail newsletters such as Cool Tools , a compendium of technology tips and product reviews written by Kevin Kelly, a co-founder of Wired ."
Reviews
"So in addition to hand jacks that can raise 7000 lbs., the Teeny Turner (a pocket sized driver), portable band saws, and laser measuring tools, you can find the best source on how to buy a car cheaply, make a low-budget movies, brew your own beer, rear an optimistic child, design a logo, win a fight, soak in feral (!). hot springs, learn to swim efficiently, prepare for a natural disaster, vagabond the world, do something dangerous (and live to tell about it), run for local office and win, go solar on your roof, or (a great boon to Boomers) remember anything."
"This carries me back to my childhood pouring over electronics magazines or the Aircraft Spruce and Specialty catalog imagining what I could do if I combined and use the right parts and tools."
"The categories are wide ranging, from cooking, crafts, learning, music, family, electronics and more. There's certain to be some area of immediate interest, but half the fun is the insight into the tools of the trade of some activity you may never have considered like beekeeping or world travel on a shoestring budget. (Disclosure--I received an early copy because a review I contributed years ago to the site was included in the book, but I'll be ordering more copies."
"I've learned about many 'cool tools' I've never heard about and I've bought several items based upon the recommendations in this book, " Veganomicon" "Glorious One- Pot Meals" "FitBit" and " Ultimate Fit or Fat"- and this is the part that makes this catalog so much fun to read and look at - You'll see many reviews on items you've never heard of before, such as, (for me) "Ideo Method cards" , used for brainstorming or "Making Books that Fly, Fold, Wrap, Hide, Pop up, Twist and Turn" or find reviews for an item you would like to purchase, but haven't had the time to do the research to find out which one is the best."
"I've was considering getting this book as a gift for my father as he and I both love this kind of stuff, but he's not the type of person to check out a website regularly."
Find Best Price at Amazon

Best Roofing Home Remodeling

Remodel: Without Going Bonkers or Broke
In fact, that's the single biggest reason that there are so many remodeling horror stories. You will learn how to identify and select the perfect professional remodeler for your project, save thousands of dollars in the process, and preserve your sanity too. Everything needed for a successful professional remodeling experience is inside! It will spare you from 'horror story' results, because you'll avoid the three critical remodeling mistakes (a savings easily worth tens of thousands).
Reviews
"In this easy reading instructional manual, Jim Molinelli lays out a concise method for keeping sanity during a remodeling project."
"Jim’s book is full of great information that guides you through the process from beginning to end."
"Undoubtedly THE book to get even if you think you might possibly sometime in the future hypothetically consider remodeling."
"Great book and well done."
"I'd have saved a lot of money and made a lot more when I sold."
"This book gives guidance on how to find reputable contractors (and it's not by using the popular advertised sites)."
"As a women owning 2 homes there is always something to fix, never mind remodeling to just update!"
"Very, Very informative."
Find Best Price at Amazon

Best Carpentry

The Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual Newly Updated
The leading manual for home improvements is getting an update to address current codes, latest materials, tools and technology. In 2005, the manual got bigger and better than ever, when The Family Handyman and Reader’s Digest joined forces and completely revised, updated, rewrote, and redesigned this home improvement classic.
Reviews
"As a further note on my background, I've been writing and editing for the nation's leading electrical trade magazine since 1996. So when I come across any book or article related to the skilled trades, I'm as concerned with the quality of the writing as with the accuracy of the information. Additionally, for nearly as many years I've been working with the nation's leading developer of electrical exam preparation products and other electrical training materials; so I have a keen appreciation of the need for setting the tone. I've also written several guides and standards for the National Electrical Contractors Association, which serves the nation's electrical unions; there, a huge concern is addressing all areas of knowledge that an electrician will need on the job. When I've tried to teach someone how to do a skilled trade task, I've often found the person didn't really understand the tools for doing the job. When I learned various skilled trades, my mentors made sure I understood how to correctly use the right tool for a particular job. It's important to note that this book does not pretend to qualify you as, for example, a Master Electrician. For example, you might run a new branch circuit in your home but you need to leave an electrical service panel change-out to a licensed electrician. This chapter shows you how to do relatively simple things like replace a water heater, insulate an attic, install a dehumidifier, and so forth. It also gives you a strong foundation in all concepts related to home climate equipment and systems. Wall paper jobs are notorious for degrading into nasty fights between spouses who didn't know what they were doing when they started. If you're married and want to avoid the cost of a divorce, don't attempt to save money by winging a wallpaper job. It's also an excellent resource if you're considering an upgrade project of some sort for your home's exterior. I just wasn't efficient in getting there, due to a big knowledge gap I had to fill. So I can't comment on the accuracy of the masonry information but it sure sounds correct to me. However, for most of this kind of work you need a bit of the artisan to get a good outcome. This is another area in which I have been extensively trained and have seen the most awful work done by the untrained DIY. There's a limit to that, especially if your home is a sort of base for projects, sports, hobbies, or even "make your living" work. I thought I had the storage thing nailed, but discovered some great tips in this chapter. If you're an apartment-dweller, in some ways it will be even more so (for reasons including those last two chapters, much of which you can apply even in an apartment setting)."
"I bought them for Christmas and my packages were lost in transit so they got to my house only a few days before Christmas and I didn't have time to re-order them."
"Awesome guide, great pictures and detailed explanation!"
"Bought this for my son and wife when they bought their house."
"Great book - clear and easy to follow instructions in very simpleton terms."
"Gave as a gift they enjoyed!"
"Love this book, everyone who wants to try their hand at fixing anything in their house or apartment should read this."
"This book is simplily detailed!"
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Best Home Repair

The Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual Newly Updated
The leading manual for home improvements is getting an update to address current codes, latest materials, tools and technology. In 2005, the manual got bigger and better than ever, when The Family Handyman and Reader’s Digest joined forces and completely revised, updated, rewrote, and redesigned this home improvement classic.
Reviews
"As a further note on my background, I've been writing and editing for the nation's leading electrical trade magazine since 1996. So when I come across any book or article related to the skilled trades, I'm as concerned with the quality of the writing as with the accuracy of the information. Additionally, for nearly as many years I've been working with the nation's leading developer of electrical exam preparation products and other electrical training materials; so I have a keen appreciation of the need for setting the tone. I've also written several guides and standards for the National Electrical Contractors Association, which serves the nation's electrical unions; there, a huge concern is addressing all areas of knowledge that an electrician will need on the job. When I've tried to teach someone how to do a skilled trade task, I've often found the person didn't really understand the tools for doing the job. When I learned various skilled trades, my mentors made sure I understood how to correctly use the right tool for a particular job. It's important to note that this book does not pretend to qualify you as, for example, a Master Electrician. For example, you might run a new branch circuit in your home but you need to leave an electrical service panel change-out to a licensed electrician. This chapter shows you how to do relatively simple things like replace a water heater, insulate an attic, install a dehumidifier, and so forth. It also gives you a strong foundation in all concepts related to home climate equipment and systems. Wall paper jobs are notorious for degrading into nasty fights between spouses who didn't know what they were doing when they started. If you're married and want to avoid the cost of a divorce, don't attempt to save money by winging a wallpaper job. It's also an excellent resource if you're considering an upgrade project of some sort for your home's exterior. I just wasn't efficient in getting there, due to a big knowledge gap I had to fill. So I can't comment on the accuracy of the masonry information but it sure sounds correct to me. However, for most of this kind of work you need a bit of the artisan to get a good outcome. This is another area in which I have been extensively trained and have seen the most awful work done by the untrained DIY. There's a limit to that, especially if your home is a sort of base for projects, sports, hobbies, or even "make your living" work. I thought I had the storage thing nailed, but discovered some great tips in this chapter. If you're an apartment-dweller, in some ways it will be even more so (for reasons including those last two chapters, much of which you can apply even in an apartment setting)."
"Awesome guide, great pictures and detailed explanation!"
"Bought this for my son and wife when they bought their house."
"Great book - clear and easy to follow instructions in very simpleton terms."
"Gave as a gift they enjoyed!"
"Love this book, everyone who wants to try their hand at fixing anything in their house or apartment should read this."
"This book is simplily detailed!"
"I personally can't give specifics as I've not read it myself, but I would recommend it for anyone who wants to be more handy around the house."
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Best Green Housecleaning

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy
A necessary resource for anyone interested in alternative approaches to healing, this book contains more than 600 easy-to-follow recipes for essential oil treatments and aromatherapy. There are plenty of good books on herbs, and some of them devote a chapter to essential oils, but there's nothing comparable to Worwood's work.
Reviews
"I'm not really sure why this is not showing a verified purchase, I bought it on amazon and paid full price...... anyway....... It has over 800 essential oil blends, which I am very happy about, as it's why I ordered the book. There is also a lot of information in this book for using essential oils with children. There is a great section on skin care and hair care with essential oils and carrier oils, as well as insomnia, the two sections I have personally found most helpful so far. I have been using essential oils for 10+ years, so this book was purchased for a bit of inspiration for blends. I have included a photo so you can see how thick with information this book literally is! ), and Kurt Schnaubelt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils (thats his newest one, it is a wealth of knowledge) and my absolute favorite: Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin by Steffan Arctander, a classic that will probably never go out of print."
"For many, this is the preferred reference book on the topic of essential oils. Honestly, if you like essential oils you will appreciate this book."
"Excellent reference."
"I have lots of great EO books, but this one is the most informative!"
"Excellent resource for anyone who is either new or knowledgeable in the 'gift' of essential oils and aromatherapy."
"Maybe wait for the newest edition​?"
"This book gives more information that I wanted, I have the previous book which is yellow."
"This is a great reference book."
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Best Deck & Patio Building

Cabin Porn: Inspiration for Your Quiet Place Somewhere
With their idyllic settings, unique architecture and cozy interiors, the Cabin Porn photographs, are an invitation to slow down, take a deep breath, and feel the beauty and serenity that nature and simple construction can create. Photographer Noah Kalina 's editorial work has been featured in New York Magazine , Esquire , and, Food & Wine .
Reviews
"Remember that time you read Walden your sophomore year and vowed you'd stop wearing deodorant and live a life closer to nature only to get sucked into that marketing internship because Uncle Bob owed your mom and favor and now you're an account executive at a nameless corporation that you secretly hate and every now and then you look wistfully out the window and dream of what it would be like to live (you know like really live, man) out in the forest where you chop wood and catch fish and make moonshine and wear clothes that last forever never go out of style and you wake up at dawn and howl at the moon at night and your house is this beautiful cabin that you built yourself with a pot of strong coffee on the stove and dried elk meat in the storehouse and you have everything you ever wanted as you puff your pipe on the porch during a warm summer night and you breath the cool air and the fireflies illuminate the dusk and you pause and you remember the exact instant when you decided to press reset on your old life and start over again."
"The book is stunning."
"Gave as a gift to a family member who was building his own cottage."
"Great book drafted up from a great website!"
"Great book with tons of good information and pictures!"
"I love the idea, and the title, but as others have said, the printing quality is poor, as was the choice of size."
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Best Home Heating & Air Conditioning

Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Modern Refridgeration and Air Conditioning)
A logical and progressive organization, rich learning pedagogy and features, a superior art program, and readability contribute to Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning’s highly accessible nature.
Reviews
"This is a great book."
"Needed this for my hvac courses it really helps understand alot if you're taking hvac courses this is the book for you it goes in detail every section from the mechanical refrigeration cycle to the electricy to duct sizing to tools piping its very detailed I highly recommend the book in case theres things you miss while taking the courses it goes in great depth of detail."
"Some areas go into great detail and then close with an advisory that the above info is out of date or no longer applicable."
"This is a fantastic book."
"It contained everything I needed and more for starting the path to taking my class A license in HVAC."
"This was a gift and the recipient was very pleased."
"Excellent technical resourse no one in the HVAC trade should be without one."
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Best Home Cleaning, Caretaking & Relocating

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing Japanese organizational consultant Marie Kondo takes tidying to a whole new level, promising that if you properly declutter your home once, you'll never have to do it again.
Reviews
"I grew up in a cluttered house and married the King of Clutter (he's the type of person who'll open a credit card bill, pay it online, and then just leave the empty envelope, inserts, and bill itself randomly strewn on whatever surface happens to be nearby). It's a breath of fresh air and positive energy that brings real joy to the process of "tidying up." My clothes are all mine (which also means that they're in nowhere near as terrible a state as other things in my house), so going through them affects only me and involves only my own feelings. Her advice may sound silly at first, but if your belongings inspire feelings of unhappiness, guilt, etc., her anthropomorphism of them can really help you change your viewpoint in a positive direction. That is likely to carry a different level of meaning for someone in Japan than in the U.S. Other references to spiritual practice and feng-shui are not likely to resonate the same way for an American audience. There is a lot of discussion of travel toiletries, but very little about kitchen utensils, toys, or other items found most often in a family home. I'm now a week in, and 6 months seems like hardly enough time to tackle all the junk in my house, but I can fully see how this can be a life-changing process."
"I was browsing Pinterest one day and stumbled upon the "konmari method" and was intrigued, so I bought this book for kindle and read it in about an hour. I always thought I was a very organized person (because everything I owned had a designated, labelled place and my house was always super clean), but after reading this book I realized I was nothing more than a skilled hoarder. I probably discarded well over 100 bags of clutter in that 6 weeks and earned over $400 selling the big-ticket items via social media, which I used to make my house prettier."
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Best Home Design & Construction

At Home: A Short History of Private Life
In these pages, the beloved Bill Bryson gives us a fascinating history of the modern home, taking us on a room-by-room tour through his own house and using each room to explore the vast history of the domestic artifacts we take for granted. Hand over control and simply enjoy the ride.” – The New York Times Book Review. A personal compendium of fascinating facts, suggesting how the history of houses and domesticity has shaped our lives, language, and ideas." Playful, yes, but Bryson is also a deft historian.” – Los Angeles Times “If this book doesn’t supply you with five years’ worth of dinner conversation, you’re not paying attention.” – People. And never tiresome, for Bryson has the gift of being the student and not the tutor.” – Washington Post “At Home is both insightful and entertaining, leaving a deeper appreciation of the stuff of home life that will never again be viewed as mundane.” – Seattle Times. “Readers who enjoyed Mr. Bryson’s apparently inexhaustible supply of nifty facts in such previous books as “A Short History of Nearly Everything” (2004) or “The Mother Tongue” (1991) will be happy to find the author’s pen as nimble and his narrative persona as genial as ever.” – Wall Street Journal “Bryson serves up a rich banquet of utterly fascinating and sometimes horrifying facts of where and how people have slept, eaten, made a living, built homes and monuments, frolicked, traveled, given birth and been laid to rest.” –Bookreporter.com. “Its lasting impression is the author’s delightful, boundless curiosity. The best nonfiction illuminates what we found impossible to see without it, and perhaps more so than any of his other wonderful books, At Home proves that Bryson writes some of the very best.” –"The AV Club," The Onion “Bryson writes with his usual slyly sassy humor. The result makes for reading that charms as it informs.” – St. Louis Post-Dispatch “Reading Bill Bryson is like having one of those friends around who’s always discovering something new—some pastime or place or piece of information—and can’t wait to breathlessly pass it along.” – Dallas Morning News “Deliciously informative. A treasure trove of facts in an engaging history of how we once lived.” – Richmond Times-Dispatch “At Home is terrific. A delightful book filled with humor and astonishing facts.” – Vancouver Sun.
Reviews
"I even learned that Christopher Columbus didn't discover North America."
"Information about our homes that is very interesting and mostly unknown in today's world."
"Bill Bryson is incredible."
"Likewise, despite some eyebrow-lifting statements and the work's lack of citations, Bryson's genuine, almost boyish, delight in his stories and his exceptional gifts as a writer make it easy to forgive the book its literary transgressions."
"Another great book from Bill Bryson!"
"I like Bryson a lot and have read most of his works."
"Using the rooms of his house as a jumping off point, you will go on a merry chase through the history of that room in general, the history of that room in his particular house, and how we use that room now."
"Liked his history...but was lost in his stories about various parts of the house."
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Best Masonry Home Improvement

From the Wood-Fired Oven: New and Traditional Techniques for Cooking and Baking with Fire
From the Wood-Fired Oven offers many more techniques for home and artisan bakers―from baking bread and making pizza to recipes on how to get as much use as possible out of a single oven firing, from the first live-fire roasting to drying wood for the next fire. From the Wood-Fired Oven offers a new take on traditional techniques for professional bakers, but is simple enough to inspire any nonprofessional baking enthusiast. • Making pizza and other live-fire flatbreads; • Roasting fish and meats; • Grilling, steaming, braising, and frying; • Baking pastry and other recipes beyond breads; • Rendering animal fats and clarifying butter; • Food dehydration and infusing oils; • And myriad other ways to use the oven's residual heat. Although wood-fired ovens are best known for crispy pizza crusts and rustic breads, they can be utilized for a much wider array of tasks, from drying wood to roasting meats. Richard Miscovich’s extensive guidebook on using these types of ovens celebrates the stunning breadth of tactics while also providing insights into history, homesteading, and masonry. Although there are several guides to building ovens and books that offer baking techniques, it’s Miscovich’s expertise at fusing these two worlds that proves especially helpful. Guiding readers through the “full heat cycle” and its uses, he provides instructions on cooking everything from roasted vegetables to seared fish, and his in-depth sections on breads are particularly stunning. Cooking with fire isn’t just a fun technique, he believes, but it’s also a way to get back some of the wisdom and fellowship that’s been lost: 'Wood-fired ovens fulfill resiliency’s requirements: flexibility, diversity, and a backup system to ensure self-reliance instead of helplessness … Generous sharing of information among bakers, millers, and oven builders increases our community’s resilience.'". He speaks with the authority of a professional baking instructor (and cook), an experienced mason, and a neighborhood baker; he also writes well, takes beautiful photos, and has a wealth of stories to tie it all together. “Richard has done so much more than just transfer his extensive knowledge about baking and wood-fired ovens onto paper in this book; he talks to the reader in a way that makes you feel that he is right in front of you, sharing his experiences, encouraging you to travel down a path that has brought him to where he is. It is a must-have addition to the collection of any food enthusiast, amateur or professional!” --Jeff Yankellow, board chair, Bread Bakers Guild of America. On the other hand, for bread aficionados and others addicted to the tastes emanating from these kinds of ovens, there’s no better substitute for the knowledge and expertise Miscovich imparts―not to mention the 50-something recipes. At times, personal stories appear, from his relationship with the late Alan Scott (a master brick-oven builder and coauthor of the seminal work on wood-fired ovens) to his bout with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Reviews
"Richard Miscovich has created such a thorough and interesting gem of a book."
"I wasn't even aware that humans are unable to digest grains unless the grains have been fermented until I read this book."
"His passion and knowledge are infectious, and his keynote address regarding the beauty, functionality and durability of wood fired ovens was inspiring."
"Absolutely love this book!"
"Great book, filled with inspiration and lots of required information for playing and having fun with fire."
"I have quite a few wood fired books in my collection but this one covers it all."
"I'm having fun with my new pizza oven and cookbook!"
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Best Contracting How-to & Home Improvement

Markup & Profit: A Contractor's Guide, Revisited
This book covers the business basics of running a construction company, whether you're a general or specialty contractor working in remodeling, new construction or commercial work.
Reviews
"Also some very good advice on how to run your business, even if you aren't in the construction business."
"Everyone in trade biz should have it before even starting out."
"I am just starting a new business and this book is very helpful."
"Best book for construction ever written."
"Easy to read."
"I highly recommend it to anyone just starting out or someone like me who has been in the trade for years."
"Best book a contractor could own in any stage of business."
"Excellent book for the contracting bussiness!"
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Best Plumbing & Home Automation Remodeling

2015 International Plumbing Code (Includes IPSDC)
With an emphasis on design and installation for optimum performance, the 2015 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE SOFT COVER sets forth established requirements for plumbing systems. ICC is a leading organization dedicated to developing a single set of comprehensive, coordinated national model construction codes.
Reviews
"book is new no markings no page creases this is perfect thank you."
"Unfortunately, you need these if you're planning on taking the ICC Fire Inspector 1 test and have the book version of the codes."
"I find these tabs are a definite necessity with every code book."
"Perfect condition - just as described."
"arrived on time and as described."
"Required for a Engineering Department Library."
"Was in the condition stated, very pleased with product."
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Best Estimating How-to & Home Improvement

Remodel: Without Going Bonkers or Broke
In fact, that's the single biggest reason that there are so many remodeling horror stories. You will learn how to identify and select the perfect professional remodeler for your project, save thousands of dollars in the process, and preserve your sanity too. Everything needed for a successful professional remodeling experience is inside! It will spare you from 'horror story' results, because you'll avoid the three critical remodeling mistakes (a savings easily worth tens of thousands).
Reviews
"In this easy reading instructional manual, Jim Molinelli lays out a concise method for keeping sanity during a remodeling project."
"Jim’s book is full of great information that guides you through the process from beginning to end."
"Undoubtedly THE book to get even if you think you might possibly sometime in the future hypothetically consider remodeling."
"Great book and well done."
"I'd have saved a lot of money and made a lot more when I sold."
"This book gives guidance on how to find reputable contractors (and it's not by using the popular advertised sites)."
"As a women owning 2 homes there is always something to fix, never mind remodeling to just update!"
"Very, Very informative."
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Best Do-It-Yourself Home Improvement

Cabin Porn: Inspiration for Your Quiet Place Somewhere
With their idyllic settings, unique architecture and cozy interiors, the Cabin Porn photographs, are an invitation to slow down, take a deep breath, and feel the beauty and serenity that nature and simple construction can create. Photographer Noah Kalina 's editorial work has been featured in New York Magazine , Esquire , and, Food & Wine .
Reviews
"Remember that time you read Walden your sophomore year and vowed you'd stop wearing deodorant and live a life closer to nature only to get sucked into that marketing internship because Uncle Bob owed your mom and favor and now you're an account executive at a nameless corporation that you secretly hate and every now and then you look wistfully out the window and dream of what it would be like to live (you know like really live, man) out in the forest where you chop wood and catch fish and make moonshine and wear clothes that last forever never go out of style and you wake up at dawn and howl at the moon at night and your house is this beautiful cabin that you built yourself with a pot of strong coffee on the stove and dried elk meat in the storehouse and you have everything you ever wanted as you puff your pipe on the porch during a warm summer night and you breath the cool air and the fireflies illuminate the dusk and you pause and you remember the exact instant when you decided to press reset on your old life and start over again."
"The book is stunning."
"Gave as a gift to a family member who was building his own cottage."
"Great book drafted up from a great website!"
"Great book with tons of good information and pictures!"
"I love the idea, and the title, but as others have said, the printing quality is poor, as was the choice of size."
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Best Electrical Home Improvement

How to Diagnose and Fix Everything Electronic, Second Edition
Choose the proper tools and set up your workbench Ensure personal safety and use proper eye and ear protection Understand how electrical components work and why they fail Perform preliminary diagnoses based on symptoms Use test equipment, including digital multimeters, ESR meters, frequency counters, and oscilloscopes Interpret block, schematic, and pictorial diagrams Disassemble products and identify sections Analyze circuits, locate faults, and replace dead parts Re-establish connections and reassemble devices. His involvement in ham radio led to his writing career, first with articles for ham radio magazines, and then with general technology features in Electronic Engineering Times, Desktop Engineering, IEEE Spectrum, and The Envisioneering Newsletter. Along with building and repairing electronic circuitry, he enjoys table tennis, restoring antique mopeds, ice skating, bicycling, and banging out a jazz tune on his harpsichord.
Reviews
"I NEVER thought of circuits this way and the author was able to explain that the active elements are the players in the story and everything else is a supporting cast. Bottom line, this is the book that I couldn't put down...and it is about some of the driest material you can find. I cannot recommend this book enough and I would pay triple just for the section where the author walks through a couple sample circuits, describes each component's function, and what would happen if that component failed."
"So far, there are many helpful tips and information to help me further the hobby along."
"Well written and organized."
"Read it slowly and use it as a reference."
"B&W pictures of some of the older devices are understandable but most of the pictures could've easily been replaced with new coloured ones."
"Good book that gives some insight to those new to troubleshooting."
"the Item Excellent and the seller is good thank you."
"Informative!"
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Best Security How-to & Home Improvement

When The Grid Goes Down, Disaster Preparations and Survival Gear For Making Your Home Self-Reliant
When the Grid Goes Down will show you how to make your home and lifestyle more self-sufficient and the critical gear needed along the way. His company is the primary provider of survival training for the Military Special Operations community and he has instructed the National Transportation & Safety Board, FAA, US Marshals, Homeland Security, and served as a technical consultant for the film Into The Wild.
Reviews
"With the recent tornadoes and weather issues, along with the scare of what I would do should the power go out for an extended time, this book is direct and extremely helpful. I have recommended this book to several of my friends and they have started using some of these ideas in their daily lives to help them be ready should something happen."
"By that I mean he covers a broad range of subjects concerning everyday survival issues in depth enough that you know a little something about it after you read his work. The author has obviously spent a LOT of time working out the methods, tactics and techniques in this book."
"seems well written and informative."
"Really quick and thorough."
"Pretty good overview of things to be considered for the time when you May need to "Be Prepared"."
"Neat ideas to keep in mind just in case something happens and you are stuck out somewhere."
"Very simplistic, mostly common sense."
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