What a refreshing book! I bought it only in hopes of learning how to make a few simple ferments such as kraut and vinegar, but received so much more! I've learned about tons of different food preservation and preperation techniques from cultures around the globe that I couldn't even imagine. There are several on my to do list now that I can't hardly wait to try. I've tried a few of the techniques already and they've all came out great. I had already started making wine occassionally, but the simple methods described in this book totally surprised and intrigued me, and have made my wine adventures even more exciting, simple and rewarding.
However, more than just a "cookbook", this book is worth buying just for the philosophies scattered throughout. I enjoyed reading this book as much as I enjoy reading novels, history, or any other book. Katz is a real homesteader who understands the importance of living in peace with the natural world, and also understands our place as part of it, not seperate from it. I really could go on and on about this book. It's great!