When it comes to self-sufficiency, survival skills, and sustainable living, one book stands head
and shoulders above the rest: The Encyclopedia of Country Living, 50th Anniversary
Edition. Written by Carla Emery, this legendary manual has sold over 1 million copies
worldwide and continues to be the go-to guide for anyone looking to live off the land, whether
you’re homesteading, prepping, or simply seeking a more natural lifestyle.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this book a must-have, who it’s for, and why it
deserves a spot on your bookshelf if you’re serious about independence, preparedness, and
country living.
A Legacy of Self-Sufficiency
The first edition of The Encyclopedia of Country Living was released over 50 years ago, and
since then, it has become more than just a book—it’s a survival bible for homesteaders and
off-grid enthusiasts. With 900+ pages of detailed instructions, recipes, and time-tested wisdom,
it remains just as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.
Carla Emery’s mission was simple: help ordinary people become less dependent on modern
conveniences and rediscover the skills that kept earlier generations alive and thriving. The 50th
Anniversary Edition expands on that legacy, updating the content for today’s readers while
keeping the heart and spirit of the original intact.
If you’ve ever wanted a single resource that covers everything from gardening to livestock
care to making your own soap, this is it.
What You’ll Learn Inside the Book
This book isn’t just about farming or gardening—it’s a complete manual for living off the land
and doing it yourself. Here are some of the invaluable skills you’ll find:
● Food Preservation: Learn how to can, dry, and preserve fruits and vegetables so
nothing goes to waste.
● Gardening for Beginners: Detailed guidance on planning, planting, and harvesting your
own food—even if you’ve never gardened before.
● Homemade Dairy & Cheese: Yes, you can make delicious cheese in just 20 minutes!
● Baking & Cooking: Master bread baking, wood stove cooking, and wholesome recipes.
● Raising Livestock: Tips on caring for chickens, goats, pigs, and even beekeeping.
● Foraging & Wild Foods: Identify, harvest, and prepare wild edibles safely.
● Natural Living: Create your own organic skincare products, bug repellents, and natural
remedies.
● Handmade Crafts: Spin wool, mill flour, tap maple trees, and more.
The book reads like a friendly guide from an experienced neighbor, walking you through
practical steps with clear explanations. Unlike many modern “how-to” guides, this one is
comprehensive enough that you won’t constantly need to Google more information—it’s all here.
You can grab your copy directly from Amazon here: The Encyclopedia of Country Living, 50th
Anniversary Edition.
Who Is This Book For?
Not sure if this book is for you? Let’s break it down.
● Homesteaders: If you live (or dream of living) on a farm or rural property, this is the
most valuable reference guide you can own.
● Preppers & Survivalists: In uncertain times, knowing how to grow, preserve, and
prepare food can literally save lives.
● Urban Farmers: Even city dwellers with a small garden or balcony setup will find plenty
of useful advice.
● DIY Enthusiasts: If you love making things with your own hands—whether it’s cheese,
soap, or bread—you’ll love the step-by-step instructions.
● Families Wanting Simplicity: Parents looking to teach their kids essential life skills will
find this book an excellent resource for practical, hands-on education.
In short, anyone who values independence, resilience, and natural living will benefit from
this guide.
You can check pricing and availability here: Buy The Encyclopedia of Country Living on
Amazon.
Pros and Cons
Like any product, this book has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a balanced look:
✅ Pros:
● Extremely comprehensive (900+ pages)—covers nearly every aspect of country living.
● Written in a friendly, approachable style that’s easy to understand.
● Perfect for both beginners and experienced homesteaders.
● Stands the test of time with 50 years of proven usefulness.
● A physical book—no need to rely on the internet when you’re off-grid.
Cons:
● Because of its size, it can feel overwhelming at first.
● Some information may feel old-fashioned, though most of it is timeless.
● Not a quick read—it’s more of a reference manual than a sit-down novel.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the value packed inside far outweighs any negatives
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?
Absolutely. If you’re serious about homesteading, prepping, or living off-grid, The
Encyclopedia of Country Living is more than just a book—it’s a survival tool. The sheer amount
of practical knowledge it provides makes it worth every penny.
It’s not just for emergencies, either. Even if you’re simply looking to live more sustainably, eat
healthier, and connect with traditional skills, this book will guide you every step of the way.
👉 Get your copy today: The Encyclopedia of Country Living, 50th Anniversary Edition.
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Hi, I’m Candace Wafford, a travel and food blogger based in Lexington, Kentucky. As a corporate traveler, I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of places, but now I’m on a mission to travel full-time. My goal? To figure out how to take my cat along for the adventure! Here at destinationdorworth.com, I share my experiences and tips on outdoor activities, travel, and of course, the best food spots I come across. I hope my blog inspires you to explore more and eat well on your journeys!