The Ultimate Guide to The Encyclopedia of Country Living

Are you yearning for a simpler life off the grid, surrounded by the beauty of nature? Look no further than “The Encyclopedia of Country Living.” Today, we’re celebrating 40 years of this timeless guide to living like a pioneer in the modern world. With over 2,000 recipes and 1,500 resources for sustainable living, this 928-page paperback is a must-have for anyone looking to embrace the country life.

Meet the Author

Table of Contents

Carla Emery, the mastermind behind this comprehensive manual, grew up on a Montana sheep ranch and later ran an Idaho farm. Her journey to writing this book began in 1970, inspired by a gift subscription to Organic Gardening magazine. What started as a simple recipe collection sold in mimeographed installments evolved into a comprehensive guide to living off the land.

Despite her passing in 2005, Emery’s practical wisdom remains relevant in today’s world. Her conversational writing style and practical advice make this book a staple for both beginners and seasoned homesteaders alike.

Inside The Encyclopedia of Country Living

Measuring 8.4 x 1.6 x 11 inches and weighing 3.5 pounds, this hefty paperback is filled with valuable information. From diagrams to sketches, tables, and photos, the user-friendly format makes it easy to dive into topics like gardening, food preservation, animal husbandry, and more.

Key Chapters and Highlights

Oddments: From financial planning to delivering babies, this section covers a variety of essential skills for country living.
An Introduction to Plants: Learn about crop planting, seed saving, and eco-friendly cleaning agents.
Grasses, Grains & Canes: Explore a range of food options from amaranth to wild rice, with practical tips on planting and processing.
Garden Vegetables: This extensive section covers planting, harvesting, and preserving veggies, with a dual organizational system for easy navigation.
Herbs & Flavorings: Discover the world of culinary, medicinal, and decorative herbs, with recipes for homemade toiletries.
Tree, Vine, Bush, & Bramble: From tree planting to wood heat, this chapter delves into the wonders of nature and self-sufficiency.
Food Preservation: Learn how to can, dry, freeze, and store food, with recipes for homemade chutneys and preserves.
Introduction to Animals: A comprehensive guide to livestock raising, butchering, and home veterinary practices.
Poultry: Everything you need to know about raising chickens, turkeys, ducks, and more, with tips on nursing and butchering.
Goats, Cows & Home Dairying: From milking to cheese-making, this chapter covers the essentials of dairy animals and milk production.
Bee, Rabbit, Sheep & Pig: Explore beekeeping, rabbit care, sheep shearing, and pig farming, with recipes for honey and meat dishes.

Bonus Features

Appendix: Discover how to decode antique cookbooks and adapt old recipes for modern kitchens.
Chronology and World Records: Learn about the book’s journey and the records it set in the publishing world.
Quizzes and Index: Test your knowledge and easily navigate through the wealth of information in this book.

Embracing a Country State of Mind

Beyond the practical advice and valuable tips, “The Encyclopedia of Country Living” embodies a spirit of faith, family, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or a city dweller dreaming of a simpler life, this book offers something for everyone.

So, whether you’re interested in raising animals, growing herbs, or preserving food, this manual is a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be explored. Dive into the world of country living and let Carla Emery be your guide to a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle.

Ready to embark on your homesteading journey? Pick up “The Encyclopedia of Country Living” today and let the adventure begin!