Customer Reviews

The Book of Skills and Tools (Family Handyman)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is great for the novice handyman such as myself as it has great pictures of nearly every tool, bolt etc that one will ever come across. It has many step-by-step instructions for making anything from a brick pathway to a stonewall and they are very easy to understand. I recommend this book as a great present to anyone that wants to try his or her hand at any handyman jobs around the home.

This is a beautiful book, made by and for those who love tools, craftsmanship, and doing it right the first time. As a former carpenter and general building and remodeling contractor, I've seen and read a lot of how-to books. I have to say, I am truly impressed at the breadth and depth and accuracy of this book, and as a bookseller by trade now, I have to say this is one book that is staying in my own personal library!

The photos are excellent, the illustrations superb, the explanations clear and understandable. Buy two, one for your workshop, and one for your library...and maybe an extra to loan your neighbor or father-in-law, so that you don't have to part with your own copy!

The title really does sum up the book. However, in the attempt to cover both aspects of a broad topic the book fails to cover either aspect in depth.

You do get color pictures of many tools and hardware products, although the focus is on tools and products used for home repair or remodeling. Additionally nearly all of the skills covered focus on home repair and remodeling.

I find that other books from Reader's digest give better coverage of home repair and remodeling. Although possibly useful for a novice, I find that the tool coverage is neither interesting nor exhaustive. The split personality and homeowner focus leaves this book with an average rating.

This book is excellent if you are new to the world of repair and craft. It gives an excellent overview of the tools and accessories needed including different kinds of screws and different kinds of hinges. Metal work is also covered. I was though disappointed that the topic of wood was not more focused upon. Excellent primer.