20 best books on off grid living – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to unplug from the grid and embark on a self-sustaining, off-grid lifestyle? Whether you’re a seasoned off-grid enthusiast or just starting to explore the idea, there’s no better way to gain knowledge and inspiration than through a book on off-grid living. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about off-grid living that cover everything from building your own sustainable home, growing your own food, generating renewable energy, and so much more. So grab a book and get ready to embrace the freedom and self-sufficiency that off-grid living can offer!


Contents

The Off-Grid Homestead

by Lori Ryker

The Off-Grid Homestead by Lori Ryker is an empowering and enlightening book about embracing a self-sustaining lifestyle. This incredible book on off-grid living takes you on a journey through the challenges and rewards of living off the grid, providing you with a wealth of knowledge and practical tips along the way.

With her extensive experience in sustainable design and architecture, Ryker guides you through every aspect of creating an off-grid homestead, from selecting the perfect location to designing an efficient and eco-friendly home. She explores alternative energy sources, water conservation techniques, and innovative methods for growing your own food.

Whether you are a seasoned homesteader or just starting to explore the idea of living off the grid, this book is a must-read. Ryker’s passion for off-grid living shines through every page, inspiring you to embrace a simpler, more sustainable way of life.

Off Grid and Free: My Path to the Wilderness

by Ron Melchiore

Off Grid and Free: My Path to the Wilderness by Ron Melchiore is an exhilarating book about embracing a self-sufficient lifestyle in the wilderness. This captivating memoir takes readers on an incredible journey as Melchiore shares his experiences of living off the grid, disconnected from modern conveniences.

With vivid descriptions and a genuine passion for nature, the author details his adventures in building a sustainable homestead, growing his own food, and finding harmony with the natural world. Melchiore’s book on off grid living inspires readers to consider an alternative way of life, one that is both empowering and liberating.

Whether you’re a seasoned off-grid enthusiast or simply curious about this unconventional lifestyle, this book about off grid living is a must-read. It offers valuable insights, practical tips, and a glimpse into the beauty and challenges of living off the grid. So, embark on this remarkable journey with Ron Melchiore and discover the joys of an off-grid existence.

The New Organic Grower, 3rd Edition: A Master’s Manual of Tools and Techniques for the Home and Market Gardener

by Eliot Coleman

The New Organic Grower, 3rd Edition: A Master’s Manual of Tools and Techniques for the Home and Market Gardener by Eliot Coleman is a must-read for anyone interested in sustainable living and self-sufficiency. This book is like a bible for those looking to embrace the principles of off-grid living, providing a comprehensive guide to organic gardening and farming methods. Coleman shares his expertise on soil health, crop rotation, and pest management, all with the goal of maximizing yields and minimizing environmental impact. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this book is packed with practical advice, innovative techniques, and inspiring stories that will empower you to create your own sustainable paradise. Get ready to dig deep into the world of organic gardening with this invaluable resource.

The Backyard Homestead: Produce All the Food You Need on Just a Quarter Acre!

by Carleen Madigan

The Backyard Homestead: Produce All the Food You Need on Just a Quarter Acre! by Carleen Madigan is a must-read book for anyone interested in sustainable living. This comprehensive guide is the ultimate resource for creating a self-sufficient lifestyle, even on a small plot of land. Whether you are a seasoned homesteader or a beginner looking to dip your toes into off-grid living, this book will provide you with all the knowledge you need to grow your own food, raise livestock, and even generate your own energy. With its practical tips and step-by-step instructions, this book about off-grid living is like having a knowledgeable mentor by your side. Get ready to embark on a rewarding journey towards self-sustainability and reconnecting with nature!

The Big Tiny: A Built-It-Myself Memoir

by Dee Williams

The Big Tiny: A Built-It-Myself Memoir by Dee Williams is a captivating book about embracing a life of simplicity and sustainability. This memoir takes readers on a journey into the world of off-grid living, where the author shares her experiences of building and living in a tiny house on wheels. This book on off-grid living is filled with stories of challenges, triumphs, and the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from living with less. Williams’ writing is honest, humorous, and inspiring, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring alternative lifestyles. Whether you are looking to downsize, reduce your carbon footprint, or simply gain a fresh perspective on what truly matters in life, this book about off-grid living is sure to leave you feeling inspired and ready to embark on your own big tiny adventure.

The Resilient Farm and Homestead: An Innovative Permaculture and Whole Systems Design Approach

by Ben Falk

The Resilient Farm and Homestead: An Innovative Permaculture and Whole Systems Design Approach by Ben Falk is a game-changing book about living off the grid. It is an essential guide for anyone looking to create a sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle. Falk’s expertise in permaculture and whole systems design shines through as he shares practical tips and strategies for building resilience in both rural and urban environments. This book offers a fresh and innovative approach to off-grid living, providing readers with the knowledge and tools they need to create their own resilient homestead. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced homesteader, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in living a more sustainable and self-reliant life.

The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It: The Complete Back-to-Basics Guide

by John Seymour

The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It: The Complete Back-to-Basics Guide by John Seymour is a captivating book on off-grid living that takes readers on a journey to a simpler and more sustainable way of life. With its comprehensive approach, this book about off-grid living covers everything you need to know about growing your own food, raising livestock, and harnessing renewable energy sources.

From building your own shelter and making homemade products to preserving food and living in harmony with nature, Seymour’s expertise shines through every page. With practical tips and step-by-step instructions, this off-grid living book equips you with the knowledge and skills to become self-sufficient in a world that is increasingly disconnected from nature. Whether you are an aspiring homesteader or simply curious about sustainable living, this book is an essential guide to embracing a more self-sufficient and fulfilling life.

The Solar Electricity Handbook: A Simple, Practical Guide to Solar Energy

by Michael Boxwell

The Solar Electricity Handbook: A Simple, Practical Guide to Solar Energy by Michael Boxwell is the ultimate handbook for anyone interested in harnessing the power of the sun. This book on off-grid living is jam-packed with valuable information and step-by-step guidance on how to create your own solar-powered system. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned professional, this book about off-grid living will equip you with the knowledge and skills to generate your own clean and sustainable energy.

From understanding the basics of solar energy to designing and installing your own solar panels, this off-grid living book covers it all. With clear explanations, helpful illustrations, and useful tips, Michael Boxwell takes you on a journey into the world of solar power. So, if you’re ready to embrace renewable energy and transform your lifestyle, The Solar Electricity Handbook is the must-have resource for you.

The Woodland Homestead: How to Make Your Land More Productive and Live More Self-Sufficiently in the Woods

by Brett McLeod

The Woodland Homestead is a captivating book about living off the grid, written by the knowledgeable Brett McLeod. This insightful guide is perfect for anyone seeking to make their land more productive and live a self-sufficient life amidst the beauty of the woods.

McLeod’s expertise shines through the pages as he shares valuable tips and techniques on how to establish a sustainable homestead in the wilderness. Whether you own a small patch of land or a vast forested area, this book provides practical advice on utilizing your resources effectively.

From growing your own food to raising livestock, The Woodland Homestead covers a wide range of topics that will empower you to live a more self-reliant lifestyle. McLeod emphasizes the importance of embracing the natural environment and working with it harmoniously to create a thriving homestead.

With stunning illustrations and detailed instructions, this book is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in off-grid living. McLeod’s passion for the subject matter is contagious, and his writing style is engaging and easy to follow.

Whether you dream of disconnecting from the grid entirely or simply want to enhance your current homestead, The Woodland Homestead is the ultimate companion for your journey towards self-sufficiency. So grab a copy, roll up your sleeves, and start transforming your woodland into a productive and fulfilling haven.

The Natural Building Companion: A Comprehensive Guide to Integrative Design and Construction

by Jacob Deva Racusin

The Natural Building Companion is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in sustainable living and creating a harmonious relationship with the environment. This comprehensive guide, written by Jacob Deva Racusin, explores the principles and techniques of natural building, offering a wealth of knowledge for those seeking to build their own eco-friendly homes.

With a focus on integrating design and construction, this book provides step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, and practical advice for constructing structures that are not only beautiful but also energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. From straw bale and timber framing to earthen floors and clay plasters, Racusin covers a wide range of natural building methods, making this book a must-have for anyone passionate about sustainable living.

Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a complete novice, this book about off-grid living will inspire and empower you to create your own natural, energy-efficient home. Dive into this off-grid living book and embark on a journey towards a more sustainable future!

The New Organic Grower, 3rd Edition: A Master’s Manual of Tools and Techniques for the Home and Market Gardener

by Eliot Coleman

The New Organic Grower, 3rd Edition: A Master’s Manual of Tools and Techniques for the Home and Market Gardener by Eliot Coleman is a must-read for anyone interested in sustainable farming and reconnecting with nature. This comprehensive book provides invaluable insights and practical advice on cultivating organic crops, regardless of whether you have a small backyard garden or are running a larger commercial operation. With an emphasis on self-sufficiency and eco-conscious practices, Coleman shares his expertise on everything from soil health and crop rotation to greenhouse construction and pest management. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this book is your ultimate guide to cultivating bountiful harvests and embracing a more sustainable lifestyle.

The Backyard Homestead: Produce All the Food You Need on Just a Quarter Acre!

by Carleen Madigan

The Backyard Homestead: Produce All the Food You Need on Just a Quarter Acre! by Carleen Madigan is an incredible book for anyone interested in self-sufficiency and sustainable living. This comprehensive guide offers practical tips and techniques for creating a thriving homestead on a small piece of land. Whether you have a backyard or a small plot of land, this book provides all the essential information you need to grow your own fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even raise chickens or goats. With easy-to-follow instructions, helpful illustrations, and valuable advice, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. In this engaging book on off-grid living, Carleen Madigan shows readers how to create a thriving homestead, no matter the size of their land. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey towards self-sufficiency with The Backyard Homestead!

The Big Tiny: A Built-It-Myself Memoir

by Dee Williams

The Big Tiny: A Built-It-Myself Memoir by Dee Williams is a captivating book about embracing a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle. This remarkable memoir takes readers on a journey of self-discovery as Williams shares her decision to downsize and build a tiny house on wheels. With vivid storytelling and a touch of humor, she guides readers through the challenges and triumphs of living off the grid in a 84-square-foot home. This inspiring book on off-grid living not only explores the practical aspects of tiny house construction, but also delves into the deeper meaning of what it means to live with less and find contentment in simplicity. If you yearn for a life that is more connected to nature and filled with purpose, this book about off-grid living is a must-read.

The Resilient Farm and Homestead: An Innovative Permaculture and Whole Systems Design Approach

by Ben Falk

The Resilient Farm and Homestead: An Innovative Permaculture and Whole Systems Design Approach by Ben Falk is a groundbreaking book on self-sufficiency and sustainable living. It offers a fresh take on off-grid living, providing readers with practical strategies and solutions for creating a resilient and regenerative homestead. Falk’s expertise in permaculture and whole systems design shines through as he shares his experiences and insights on topics such as water management, food production, energy systems, and community building. This book about off-grid living is a must-read for anyone looking to embrace a more sustainable, resilient, and harmonious way of life.

The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It: The Complete Back-to-Basics Guide

by John Seymour

The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It: The Complete Back-to-Basics Guide by John Seymour is the ultimate bible for those seeking to embrace the rustic and self-reliant lifestyle. This book on off-grid living provides a comprehensive guide to living off the land and becoming self-sufficient in every aspect of life. With a wealth of practical knowledge and timeless wisdom, Seymour covers everything from growing your own food and raising livestock, to building your own shelter and generating your own power.

Whether you dream of escaping the modern world or simply want to reduce your carbon footprint and live a more sustainable life, this book about off-grid living is a must-read. Seymour’s passion for self-sufficiency shines through every page, inspiring readers to reconnect with nature and take control of their own well-being. So, if you’re ready to turn your back on the rat race and embrace a simpler way of life, The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It is the perfect guide to help you navigate the world of off-grid living.

The Solar Electricity Handbook: A Simple, Practical Guide to Solar Energy

by Michael Boxwell

The Solar Electricity Handbook is a remarkable book on off-grid living that provides a simple and practical guide to harnessing the power of solar energy. Written by Michael Boxwell, an expert in renewable energy, this book is a goldmine of information for anyone looking to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. From understanding the basics of solar power to designing and installing your own solar system, this book covers it all. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIY enthusiast, you’ll find valuable tips, step-by-step instructions, and real-world examples that will help you navigate the world of off-grid living. So, if you’re eager to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on your energy bills, and gain more independence, this is the ultimate book about off-grid living that you need to get your hands on.

The Woodland Homestead: How to Make Your Land More Productive and Live More Self-Sufficiently in the Woods

by Brett McLeod

The Woodland Homestead is a comprehensive and practical guidebook on living self-sufficiently in the woods. Written by Brett McLeod, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in off-grid living. McLeod provides expert advice on everything from finding the perfect piece of land to building sustainable structures and cultivating a productive garden. With its detailed instructions and beautiful illustrations, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge for those seeking to create a more sustainable and fulfilling life in the wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or a beginner looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this book about off-grid living will inspire and empower you to live harmoniously with nature.

The Natural Building Companion: A Comprehensive Guide to Integrative Design and Construction

by Jacob Deva Racusin

The Natural Building Companion is an exceptional book on sustainable and integrative design and construction, perfect for anyone interested in off-grid living or creating environmentally friendly homes. Jacob Deva Racusin, a renowned expert in natural building techniques, provides a comprehensive guide that goes beyond traditional construction methods. This book is an invaluable resource for those who want to learn how to build with natural materials like straw bales, timber, and clay, while also incorporating renewable energy systems and water conservation strategies. With its practical advice and stunning illustrations, this book about off-grid living will inspire and empower readers to create beautiful, energy-efficient, and environmentally conscious homes.

Off Grid and Free: My Path to the Wilderness

by Ron Melchiore

Off Grid and Free: My Path to the Wilderness is a captivating book about the author’s journey into the wilderness and his pursuit of off-grid living. Ron Melchiore takes readers on an exhilarating adventure as he shares his experiences of building a self-sufficient life in the remote Canadian wilderness.

This book on off-grid living is packed with practical tips and valuable insights that will inspire and educate anyone interested in living a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle. Melchiore’s storytelling ability brings the challenges and triumphs of off-grid living to life, making it an engaging and enlightening read.

If you’re looking for a book about off-grid living that combines personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a deep appreciation for nature, Off Grid and Free: My Path to the Wilderness is the perfect choice. Get ready to be inspired to embark on your own journey towards self-sufficiency and freedom!

The Off-Grid Homestead

by Lori Ryker

The Off-Grid Homestead is a captivating book about embracing a self-sufficient lifestyle and disconnecting from the grid. Written by Lori Ryker, a renowned expert on sustainable architecture and off-grid living, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for those seeking to break free from the confines of modern society.

Ryker’s book is a comprehensive guide that covers everything from selecting the ideal location for your off-grid homestead to designing and building sustainable structures. With beautiful illustrations and practical advice, she explores alternative energy sources, water conservation techniques, and organic gardening methods.

Whether you are a seasoned off-grid enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of self-sufficiency, this book is a must-read. Ryker’s passion for off-grid living shines through in her writing, making The Off-Grid Homestead an invaluable resource for anyone looking to live a simpler, more sustainable life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about off grid living provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for those seeking to embrace a self-sufficient lifestyle. From practical tips on renewable energy and sustainable agriculture to personal stories of individuals who have successfully disconnected from the grid, these books offer valuable insights and guidance. Whether you are a seasoned off-gridder or just starting your journey, these books are sure to captivate and educate. So, grab a copy and embark on a fascinating adventure into the world of off grid living!