Homesteading is more than a lifestyle, it’s a journey toward self-sufficiency, sustainability, and a deeper connection with the land. Whether you’re dreaming of a small backyard garden or a full-fledged off-grid farm, the right resources can guide you every step of the way. Books, in particular, offer timeless wisdom, practical tips, and inspiration from seasoned homesteaders. Below, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-read homesteading books that cater to beginners and experienced homesteaders alike. From gardening to food preservation to livestock care, these books will equip you with the knowledge to thrive on your homestead.
1. The Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla Emery
If you could only own one homesteading book, The Encyclopedia of Country Living might be it. Often called the “homesteader’s bible,” this comprehensive guide by Carla Emery covers everything from gardening and seed saving to raising livestock and living off-grid. Updated editions incorporate modern techniques while retaining its folksy charm. It’s a go-to resource for anyone serious about self-sufficient living.
Why You’ll Love It: Its depth and breadth make it a one-stop reference for nearly every homesteading topic.
2. The Backyard Homestead by Carleen Madigan
Perfect for beginners or those with limited space, The Backyard Homestead shows how to transform even a small plot into a productive homestead. Carleen Madigan offers practical advice on growing vegetables, raising chickens, keeping bees, and preserving your harvest. With clear illustrations and step-by-step instructions, it’s an approachable entry point into homesteading.
Why You’ll Love It: It proves you don’t need acres of land to grow your own food and live sustainably.
3. Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens by Gail Damerow
Chickens are often the gateway livestock for homesteaders, and Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is the ultimate resource for poultry care. Gail Damerow covers everything from choosing breeds and building coops to feeding, health management, and egg production. Whether you’re raising a few hens or a larger flock, this book has you covered.
Why You’ll Love It: Its detailed, no-nonsense approach makes chicken-keeping accessible and rewarding.
4. The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It by John Seymour
A classic in the homesteading world, John Seymour’s The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It is a masterclass in self-reliance. This beautifully illustrated guide dives into gardening, animal husbandry, and traditional skills like bread-making, brewing, and cheese-making. Seymour’s philosophy of living simply and sustainably resonates with homesteaders of all levels.
Why You’ll Love It: It blends practical instruction with an inspiring vision of a self-sufficient life.
5. Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving by Judi Kingry and Lauren Devine
Preserving your harvest is a cornerstone of homesteading, and the Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving is the gold standard for canning and preserving. With safe, tested recipes for jams, pickles, salsas, and more, this book ensures your garden’s bounty lasts year-round. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to master food preservation.
Why You’ll Love It: Its clear instructions and reliable recipes take the guesswork out of canning.
6. Mini Farming: Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre by Brett L. Markham
Think you need a big plot to homestead? Think again. Mini Farming by Brett L. Markham shows how to achieve food self-sufficiency on as little as a quarter acre. With tips on intensive gardening, crop rotation, composting, and soil health, this book is perfect for urban or suburban homesteaders looking to maximize small spaces.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s packed with strategies to grow more food in less space without breaking the bank.
7. Root Cellaring by Mike and Nancy Bubel
Before refrigeration, root cellars were the key to year-round food storage. Root Cellaring by Mike and Nancy Bubel revives this traditional skill, offering practical advice on storing fruits and vegetables without electricity. From building a root cellar to using natural storage methods, this book is a game-changer for homesteaders aiming to reduce reliance on modern conveniences.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a deep dive into low-tech, sustainable food storage solutions.
8. The Homesteader’s Herbal Companion by Amy K. Fewell
Herbs are a homesteader’s best friend, and The Homesteader’s Herbal Companion by Amy K. Fewell shows you how to grow and use them for food, medicine, and household products. This book covers everything from planting medicinal herbs to making salves and teas, making it a valuable addition to any homestead library.
Why You’ll Love It: It empowers you to harness the power of herbs for health and home.
9. The Woodland Homestead by Brett McLeod
For homesteaders with forested land, The Woodland Homestead by Brett McLeod is a treasure trove of knowledge. This book explores how to manage woodlots, forage for wild edibles, and integrate trees into your homestead. From firewood to maple syrup, it’s a unique guide for those living in or near woodlands.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s tailored to homesteaders looking to make the most of their wooded property.
10. Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver
Part memoir, part manifesto, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver chronicles her family’s year-long experiment in eating locally. While not a traditional how-to guide, this beautifully written book offers practical insights into gardening, cooking, and sustainable living. It’s a heartfelt reminder of why homesteading matters.
Why You’ll Love It: Its storytelling inspires you to embrace local food and a slower, more intentional lifestyle.
Why These Books Matter
Homesteading is as diverse as the people who practice it, and these 10 books reflect that diversity. Whether you’re focused on growing food, raising animals, preserving your harvest, or living off-grid, there’s something here for you. Each book combines practical know-how with the inspiration to keep you motivated on your homesteading journey.
Pro Tip: Start with one or two books that align with your immediate goals – perhaps The Backyard Homestead for beginners or Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens if you’re diving into poultry. As your skills grow, you can expand your library to include specialized topics like herbalism or woodland management.
Ready to Dive In?
Pick up one of these books, grab a notebook, and start planning your homestead. Whether you’re in a city apartment or a rural retreat, these resources will help you take the first (or next) step toward a more self-sufficient life. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our site!
Happy homesteading!
