We are going to purchase the Back to Basics book. Can anyone tell me if there is a difference in the 1981 copyrighted version and the 1997 version. Sometimes newer versions are not as good in some books and better in others. Thanks for any help.

-- Terry - NW Ohio (aunt_tm@hotmail.com), February 22, 2001

Answers

dont know about those printings,, but I know the 78 and 89 versions are different. Just some of the info is left out of the newer one,, but it had added info.

-- Stan (sopal@net-port.com), February 22, 2001.

Terry, My issue is the 1981 version. It is very well illustrated. I don't know much about the other issues but, I would think that they are all similiar for the needs you may have for it. A good place to find older additions of most books is on www.half.com. Check it out and see if they have the 1981 (first edition). Theres a link to www.half.com on my website if you want to check it out. It is on the right side of my homepage, titled second way to make money. Sincerely, Ernest www.communities.msn.com/livingoffthelandintheozarks

-- Ernest in the Ozarks (espresso42@hotmail.com), February 22, 2001.

I would purchase Carla Emery's book before I would purchase that one. I unfortunately don't have my own personal copy yet but you can do a search at Barnes and Noble or someplace to find the correct title.

-- Sandy Davis (smd2@netzero.net), February 23, 2001.

I also think that,, Carls Emery book,, Encloypedia of Country Living, is a "better" book. It has more usefull information,, though I did get Back to BAcics first.

-- stan Opal (sopal@net-port.com), February 23, 2001.

The book by Carla Emery is entitled " Encyclodedia of Country Living" I have both books but find I refer to Carla's book most often, as it is written in a more hands on way. Have you looked at your local library?Our carries both books as well as many other homesteading books, this way you can look at it for free before purchasing for your own library.

-- Kelle in MT. (kvent1729@aol.com), February 23, 2001.

I prefer the 1981 issue myself. It has more of the old ways of doing things. In fact, I got mine on e-bay for under $7.

-- pat (mikulptrc@aol.com), February 23, 2001.

To all that responded, thank you. I own Carla Emery's book too. I wore the one out from our former library before I was able to purchase our own. I have already reserved a copy of the Back to Basics 1997 edtion from a library close by and another nearby library (nearby? well, 20 miles to one and 10 to the other but that is near I guess) has the 1981 edition in their reference section if I can get in to look at it. There are several copies of 1981 edition at half.com right now - that is what prompted me to ask the question in the first place. Thanks again.

-- Terry - NW Ohio (aunt_tm@hotmail.com), February 23, 2001.