The New Complete Joy of Home Brewing
Charlie Papazian
This wasn't the first book I ever read about home brewing, but it remains the best as an overall treatment of the subject. Papazian's information is well-organized, and more up to date than other books, which often include old methods, and underemphasise the importance of sanitation. This new edition includes more up-to-date info, and an index, a big shortcoming of the original edition.
Papazian's approach to brewing is laid-back -- he coined the phrase "Relax, Don't worry, have a homebrew." He's right -- brewing isn't that complicated, and is a lot more fun when you aren't obsessing over every step. With a few simple precautions, you can insure that your beer will be just so much better than most commercial stuff.
The book has plenty of advice for beginners and experienced brewers alike, along with a lot of recipes. Just don't be put off by the recipe names like "Toad Spit Stout" and "Goat Scrotum Ale."
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The Home Brewer's Companion
Charlie Papazian
Papazian's second book on homebrewing. Not as whimsical as Complete Joy; actually, it's a bit more reflective. Between the lines lies a deep appreciation for the transformative qualities of beer and good dining. Papazian, trained as a physicist, stumbled onto the path of homebrew guru many years ago, and in between the pile of new recipes and new technical information, you get the feeling that this journey has changed him. Also, the state of the homebrewing art has changed dramatically since the first book -- new products and techniques are making homebrewing even more accessible and sophisticated.
If you think you've read it all about brewing, perhaps you do need this book, as it will reconnect you with some of the magic surrounding good food and drink.
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The New World Guide to Beer
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson is perhaps the best-known writer on beer and brewing, and justifiably so. This new edition of his classic, the World Guide to Beer, is an extensive journey to the beer-brewing regions of the world. The best part of Jackson's talent is his descriptions of the brews he samples; you can almost smell and taste the beers he describes.
Lavishly illustrated with photographs and label art. A coffee table book for those who would rather have a Guinness.
Order in Hardcover (30% off list)