Based on experiences of millions of Scouts and leaders, this book holds essential information for every outdoor enthusiast. A comprehensive reference, this handbook includes sections on trek, preparation and adventures, appreciating our environment, and more.
I hate to say this, and, clearly, the Girl Scouts,(& Explores, & the Venture Crews) of America need to do something about it, but, right now, the Boy Scouts Manual is still the best scouting program book - Britain's Co-ed Scouting Program, on the other hand, may have us well wupped, grin, I see where you learned your knots, Lou.
For something published in the 1980’s, this is decently current. Some sections are quite outdated, such as cameras and film. I was surprised that it included Aspirin in the first aid kit list, as at this time it was already known that Aspirin can cause Reye’s Syndrome. Used then-up-to-date science. Felt like fungi should have been separate from plants, or at least given a bigger distinction in the plant chapter. Mentioned global warming, but not in the way it would be brought up today. Switched between the terms “Native American” and “Indian” and used “Eskimo” for all Alaska Natives. A couple of major typos in the bios at the end.
My husband got this book for Christmas, as he is an ASM for my son's troop. He recommended I read the chapter on navigation since I wanted to learn how to use a compass and map. As I leafed through the book, every chapter looked interesting and I thought I'd probably learn a few things if I read it cover to cover. So I did. And I did learn a few things. It was fun to read about topics ranging from kayaking to astronomy. I was given a good intro to compass navigation for a class I took, and a good intro to a good many more subjects as well. I'm not sure I'll ever fly fish, but I'm not sure I won't. Plus, now I know such useful information as how to assemble my own "pack-it-out" kit in case I ever need to poop in the woods in a place where it shouldn't be left behind.
A compendium of information relevant to the Boy Scouts. It contains information on hiking, first aid, packing food and even things on geology and botany. I used to read this book all the time when I went camping and stuff. It still holds up and is a marvelous book. It doesn't go into much depth with each thing it covers, but I don't know what you expect from a book that is only 630 pages long or so.
Going back to what I said about reading it all the time, the cover is so damaged in my copy that I had to duct tape the spine, so I might be a little biased. I don't even remember when I bought it, but I do know I had it when I was a Boy Scout and that was sometime in the 1990s so...
A great comprehensive field guide to all things Scouting. Each chapter is a brief overview of the basics for Scouting; they might even be considered as mini merit badges and philosophy discussions. Might be a little much for younger Scouts, but a must for Scout leaders. Venturers will want to be familiar with this handy guide, though they probably have already learned most of these things.
Excellent resource for anyone who loves the outdoors. This book is useful for anyone who hikes, camps, boats, or any other outdoor activity. You don't have to be in Boy Scouts to find this book useful!
Read again recently. Although a bit dated, a great source of classical outdoor information. If you like being outside, this is a great book you should read. It has gone in my backpack previously and probably will again.