The Alaska Homesteader's Handbook

by Tricia Brown, Nancy Gates

The Alaska Homesteader’s Handbook is a remarkable compilation of practical information for living in one of the most impractical and inhostpitable landscapes in the United States. More than forty pioneer types ranging from their mid-nineties to mid-twenties describe their reasons for choosing to live their lives on Alaska and offer useful instructions and advice that made that life more livable. Whether it’s how to live among bears, build an outhouse, cross a river, or make birch syrup, each story gives readers a window to a life most will never know but many still dream about. Dozens of photographs and more than 100 line drawings illustrate the real-life experiences of Alaska settlers such as 1930s New Deal colonists, demobilized military who stayed after World War II, dream seekers from the ’60s and ’70s, and myriad others who staked their claim in Alaska.

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2010

Reviews

[Kris Loveid · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love books about Alaska especially non fiction. This was an easy read composed of short tips from people who have lived the homestead life. The writing includes a lot of direct quotes which I loved: slang, fun insights into the speaker's sense of humor. No huge secrets about homestead life but a fun read.

[Rachel Schichtl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It's not a "typical" book , in the sense that each section is written or at least about a different Alaskan Homesteader. There are chapters on fishing, food preservation, how to build things etc. One of the neat things my huband and I enjoyed was a list from the 1950's ( I think) that was a grocery list for when the family went to town for the year. 200 pounds of sugar, hundreds of pounds of flour, salt, cans upon cans of veggies. Just a really neat look into the way Alaskans live, both historically and today.

[Lara Polk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book for this Alabama girl - it had some very interesting things in it. I highly recommend to everyone who is interested in living of the land, saving money - like our grandparents and their parents did.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought it was interesting to see how Alaskans live and I know they are apart of USA but it seems like they are a world apart from where I live and it sheds new light to that.