Woodworker's Central Woodworker's Gazette Gazette Archive 7/2/00

A book review: By Eric Smith Title: Creative Country Construction Authors: Robert Inwood & Christian Bruyere Published by: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc. 387 Park Avenue South New York, NY 10016-8810 ISBN 0806971150 Price Softcover: $19.95 (Canada $29.95 ) 288 b/w pages On the day you get fed up with your nine to five and tell the boss what he can do with his stinking job, put the wife/husband, family, and dog in the wagon and head to the hills, make sure you pack this book - it will comfort the fall. This is the book that will help you build your own personal log home, both practically and sympathetically with what ever surroundings you end up in. It is all in here, from orientation of the home to building a root cellar, green houses and a sauna. Tricks to help teach the skills of masonry, right up to making fireplaces. Always wanted to build a crane? Well that too is in here, in the form of a gin pole. What I like about this book is the variety it provides, both in traditional techniques and modern solutions to old problems. It has plenty of technical advice, and includes the stories of several creative country builders with follow-up visits several years later. Some still live happily others have found their dream lies elsewhere. It is written clearly and concisely, though it does change tense sometimes in a way that I find unnerving. As well, it sometimes switches from first person singular, to third person without missing a beat. I think this is done intentionally to give it a more holistic feel, but it doesn't work for me. I like this book and would recommend it to anyone thinking about building their own country house or barn. You may not use it, but you'll be glad you had a look! I enjoyed reading Creative Country Construction and as soon as I get some land,,, well I'm going to build me something. Eric Smith Editor's Note: Sterling Publishing has graciously donated several books for review which are passed on to our members free of charge in exchange for thoughtful, honest reviews. Thank You!