Editorial Reviews

As reviewed by Kirkus Discoveries: 'Step-by-step instructions on how to build a home in an economical and artistically unique way. Owning a home doesn't have to be a trying ordeal, says Madison, who reports that he built his own house with little more than his own muscle power and ingenuity. Though he claims not to be particularly handy, he managed to create a fully functional cabin complete with electricity, running water and Internet access as part of a journey that was both fulfilling and therapeutic. He takes readers through the process, from cutting down trees and laying the foundation for the floor to installing piping and electricity to detailing plans to build additional modules. Pictures and diagrams complement the text, and the author even discusses his future plans to fully automate the cabin. In addition to the down-and-dirty details, he uses quotes from a number of philosophers-Aristotle, Locke, Rousseau and others-to help explain his motivation. It was as much about testing his own abilities as it was about creating a physical shelter. One one level, this is a practical guide that contains pertinent information for people who actually want to build their own cabin. On another, it's a fascinating look inside the mind of a man who chose to go against the grain and who writes with such folksy charm and comical practicality that you can't help but applaud him for bucking the system. Those not interested in building their own homes will be bored senseless by the technical details and some of the long-winded endnotes, but entertaining anecdotes-such as how the author munches on blackberries while simultaneously trimming his beard in his yard to lay down a barrier of human scent that deters snakes-keep the pages turning. In definite need of editorial direction but makes a case for the author-whatever his name is-getting his own home-improvement show.' As reviewed by New York Times best selling author Ellen Tanner Marsh: 'When Henry David Thoreau tired of the city in 1845, he retreated to the country, living on the shores of Walden Pond and chronicling his experiences in the timeless work Walden or Life in the Woods. Now, in an enchanting new book, A Small Cabin that One Person can Build, readers are presented with a sort of modern-day version of Thoreau's classic. Like Thoreau, author Aristotle Locke Rousseau Hume Madison (a.k.a. Al Madison) decided to retreat from his hectic life, and although he didn't have a place to live, he had some time and money and, more importantly, some land and trees. In this amazing little book, Madison (each of the illustrations names he uses provides a famous quote at the end of it) sets out to build a log cabin-and educate readers on how to do it themselves. In a friendly, approachable style, Madison shows readers exactly how he built his cabin using easy to follow step-by-step instructions, from insulation to wiring to putting on a porch. He lists exactly what tools you need and where to get them. Lest the thought of roughing it doesn't appeal to you, be assured that this cabin is no rustic refuge. Madison added all the modern comforts, including Internet service and a flush toilet. 'There are two characteristics to my building,' he writes 'It was built efficiently and it is a deliberate work of art.' Filled with wonderful photographs and a fine, wry wit, Madison's book is not just a how-to, it's a why-to. Because Madison didn't just build a cabin; he rebuilt himself. As he takes the time to point out, his labors made him healthier, stronger, and emotionally tougher, too. Readers can live vicariously through Madison in this wise and funny book, but truthfully, after reading it you'll want to build a cabin of your own. Luckily Madison is here to show you how.'

Customer Reviews