Why and How of Woodworking: A Simple Approach to Making Meaningful Work Hardcover – Illustrated, 7 Dec. 2018

I seldom leave reviews but a) I really like this book and b) there are sparse details from the publisher, online or other Amazon review as to what this book is actually about specifically. So here goes....Anyone familiar with Fine Woodworking Magazine will be familiar with the gorgeous work of Mike Pekovich. Here we get to see where these pieces of art come from and as mentioned in the title - "How and Why".The book can be split in two parts: General advice and a themed portfolio of Pekovich's work with plans.Advice/Education section:The book starts with "Make Shop Time Matter" - tips on how to best make use of limited time by your bench presents as "rules" which are basically pearls of wisdom. Chapter 2 covers advice on design accompanied with spectacular photography to prove he knows what he's talking about. Chapter 3 is on the Hand Tools required and exercises to develop skills including a tutorial on sharpening and cutting a dovetail. The final chapter is on wood finishing.Portfolio Section:The other half of the book is a walk through Petovich's work covering Cabinets, Boxes, Casework and Tables. Some of this work has been presented in FWW magazine. There are technical drawings for many of these pieces but not to the level of cut lists and instructions as you would see in the magazine.I'm still reading and enjoying this book. I really like it but this is largely as I really like Pekovich's work, photography and ethos. So I'm biased but it is a really inspirational book.

Quality and packed with very good information , highly recommended

Absolutely fantastic book. Mike is an inspiration to many woodworkers and a font of knowledge on the subject. The book is well structured, impeccably laid out and has some simply stunning photos. If you want some inspiration to get you back in the workshop and making stuff this is the book for you.

As per the headline, nothing to dislike. A beautiful book that offers some practical tips as well as a look into the thought process of someone who is designing their own furniture but still learning as they go.

Very few books on wood working manage to achieve what this book has. It's not a step by step how to make X or Y. But an exploration of the mental path to achieving a design philosophy and developing your own ethos behind your wood work

He writes clearly and passionately. Was a joy to read and I learned a lot! Great photography and functional instruction

A well structured and interesting book that has a novel style. Well illustrated it covers many areas with a very different approach to that which is adopted by most woodworking authors. A lovely present for a new or relatively new woodworker.

Well written and informative by a well own professional woodworker. Highly recommended.