These homesteading books will help you get started on your homesteading journey! You’re in for a wild ride filled with dirt, sweat, and the most satisfying sense of accomplishment you’ll ever feel. Books are full of wisdom that can guide you through everything from raising chickens to preserving your harvest. I’ve rounded up ten of the best homesteading books out there to get you started.
We started homesteading when we moved to our first home. It sat on a ½ acre lot in town so we didn’t have a lot of space to work with. Brent was raised gardening so he planted us a little one out back. We didn’t get much out of it because our neighborhood was full of squirrels, but we grew and learned from there. You don’t have to be on a farm to start learning homesteading skills. Do what you can where you are. You’ll be surprised at what you’re capable of.
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Homesteading Books
If you’re also just starting out and want to be more self-sufficient, here is a list of homesteading books that are sure to inspire you and help you on your way.
1. “Pastured Poultry Profits” by Joel Salatin
If you’ve ever dreamed of raising your own broilers and providing your own food, this book is a must-read. Joel Salatin breaks down everything you need to know about raising pastured poultry.
2. “The Marvelous Pigness of Pigs” by Joel Salatin
Another gem from Joel Salatin, this book explores pigs and their role on the homestead. Whether raising pigs for meat or just wanting a couple to keep you company, this book will teach you all you need to know about caring for them. Pigs are some of my favorite animals to raise on the homestead.
3. “Ball Complete Book of Home Preservation“
Got a large crop of tomatoes and not sure what to do with them? Fear not, because the Ball Complete Book of Home Preservation covers you. From canning to pickling to freezing, this book will teach you all the ins and outs of preserving your harvest so you can enjoy it year-round. It has great step-by-step instructions so even a beginner can easily follow them.
4. “Practical Permaculture” by Jessi Bloom and Dave Boehnlein
Permaculture is all about working with nature to create a sustainable, self-sufficient homestead, and this book is the ultimate guide. Jessi Bloom and Dave Boehnlein cover everything from designing your homestead layout to planting your own food forest. It’s a great resource for learning to work with nature instead of against it.
5. “The Chicken Health Handbook“ by Gail Damerow
Keeping your flock healthy is key to a successful homestead, and this book is your go-to resource for all things chicken health. Gail Damerow covers everything from common illnesses to preventive care. I use this book all the time on my homestead. Anyone who’s ever raised chickens knows how accident-prone they can be.
6. “Herbal Medicine for Beginners“ by Katja Swift and Ryn Midura
Homesteading is all about self-sufficiency, and what better way to take care of your health than with herbs from your own garden? This beginner’s guide to herbal medicine will teach you how to grow and use a variety of medicinal plants to keep you and your family healthy naturally.
7. “Starting Right With Bees” by Storey’s Country Wisdom Bulletins
I’m new to beekeeping, but I’ve been researching them. This book is a great reference whether you’re just starting out with bees, or you’re a pro. Starting Right With Bees covers everything you need to know to get started with your own hive.
8. “The New Organic Grower” by Eliot Coleman
I think most homesteaders dream of gardening like Eliot Coleman. He’s a pioneer in organic farming, and this book is a must-read for anyone interested in growing their own food. From soil health to crop rotation, Coleman covers it all in this comprehensive guide to organic gardening.
9. “The Complete Book of Self-Sufficiency” by John Seymour
John Seymour’s book is a treasure trove of information for homesteaders. Covering everything from growing your own food to building your own shelter, this book is a great resource for anyone looking to live a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
10. “Back to Basics: A Complete Guide to Traditional Skills” by Abigail R. Gehring
From building a log cabin to making your own soap, “Back to Basics” covers a wide range of traditional skills that are essential for homesteading. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to brush up on your skills, this book has something for you.
FAQs
What are the best homesteading books for beginners?
There are so many to choose from but the most popular would be, “The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It” by John Seymour.
Are there any homesteading books that focus specifically on gardening?
Yes, there are several great options for gardening books, such as “The Vegetable Gardener’s Bible” by Edward C. Smith and “The New Organic Grower” by Eliot Coleman.
Which homesteading books cover raising animals like chickens or goats?
Books like “Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens” by Gail Damerow and “The Backyard Goat” by Sue Weaver are excellent resources for those interested in raising chickens or goats.
What homesteading books offer advice on sustainable living practices?
“The Resilient Farm and Homestead” by Ben Falk and “Gaia’s Garden: A Guide to Home-Scale Permaculture” by Toby Hemenway are great resources for sustainable living on the homestead.
Can you recommend any homesteading books for children or families?
“The Family Garden Plan” by Melissa K. Norris
Where can I find homesteading books if I don’t have access to a local bookstore?
You can buy homesteading books online through websites like Amazon, or you can check with your local library. Many homesteading books are also available in e-book for digital download.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find these homesteading books helpful and inspiring. Whether you’re just starting out or already knee-deep in chickens and compost, these resources can help you embrace the challenges and joys of homesteading with confidence. Happy reading, and may your homestead flourish and thrive!
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[…] These homesteading books will help you get started on your homesteading journey! You’re in for a wild ride filled with dirt, sweat, and the most satisfying sense of accomplishment you’ll ever feel. Books are full of wisdom that can guide you through everything from raising chickens to preserving your harvest. I’ve rounded up ten of the best homesteading books out there to get you started. […]