If you’re serious about self-sufficiency, building resilience, and ditching the grid for good, having the right off grid living books at your fingertips is essential. From practical guides on renewable energy to mindset-shifting memoirs, a great off-grid library can be the difference between frustration and freedom.
Whether you’re just beginning your homestead journey or deep into a survivalist lifestyle, these 15 books offer valuable insight, timeless skills, and hard-earned wisdom.
1. The Ultimate Guide to Off-Grid Living
This comprehensive guide (written by us!) is a down-to-earth manual for anyone dreaming of self-sufficiency. It covers choosing land, setting up energy systems, water collection, food preservation, DIY building, and sustainable daily living. Whether you’re planning to go off the grid or already living it, this book is full of practical advice, checklists, and real-life experience from our homestead in Arkansas.
2. Back to Basics by Abigail Gehring
An all-in-one reference guide that teaches traditional skills for modern-day homesteaders: gardening, raising animals, woodworking, and more. A beautiful visual manual for those who want to live more simply.
3. The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It by John Seymour
A classic that inspired generations. Seymour breaks down every element of rural life, from crop rotation to animal husbandry, in an approachable and motivating style.
4. Off Grid Solar by Joseph P. O’Connor
If you plan to power your homestead with the sun, this is a must-read. It explains off-grid solar design, components, and maintenance without confusing jargon.
5. The Resilient Gardener by Carol Deppe
Focusing on five staple crops—potatoes, corn, beans, squash, and eggs—this book is gold for food security and adaptability. Perfect for off-grid growing.
6. Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag by Creek Stewart
A survivalist’s go-to for assembling an emergency kit. A great resource even for off-grid families who want to stay prepared.
7. Country Wisdom & Know-How by M. John Storey
Packed with DIY knowledge on everything from baking to beekeeping. A handy reference book with diagrams and instructions for nearly every homesteading skill.
8. The Permaculture Handbook by Peter Bane
For those interested in regenerative design and sustainable land use, this book dives deep into permaculture practices perfect for off-grid living.
9. The Backyard Homestead Guide to Raising Farm Animals by Gail Damerow
A practical resource for anyone ready to add chickens, goats, pigs, and other livestock to their homestead. Learn the basics of animal care, housing, and feeding for a thriving, sustainable farm.
10. Alone in the Wilderness by Richard Proenneke
Part journal, part survival guide, this inspiring memoir details the author’s real-life adventure building a cabin in the Alaskan wilderness.
11. The Backyard Homestead by Carleen Madigan
A favorite among beginner and experienced homesteaders alike, this book covers how to turn even a small plot of land into a self-sufficient food-producing space. Learn about gardening, raising animals, preserving food, and more in one practical volume.
12. Survival Wisdom & Know How by The Editors of Stackpole Books
A survival manual with contributions from hundreds of experts. Topics include hunting, first aid, shelter building, and foraging.
13. The Prepper’s Water Survival Guide by Daisy Luther
Clean water is everything. This book covers rainwater collection, filtration, purification, and long-term storage strategies.
14. Gardening When It Counts by Steve Solomon
Ideal for growing in tough conditions with minimal resources. This book is great for off-gridders who want high-yield, low-cost gardening.
15. Where There Is No Doctor by David Werner
A life-saving manual on medical care in remote areas. Used by off-grid communities around the world, it teaches how to diagnose and treat common illnesses without a hospital.
Final Thoughts
There’s no better investment for your off-grid journey than knowledge. These off grid living books offer real-world guidance, whether you’re growing food, generating power, or preparing for uncertain times.
And if you’re just starting out, don’t forget to check out our own guide—The Ultimate Guide to Off-Grid Living—designed to help you take confident steps toward a more independent life.
📚 Ready to build your off-grid bookshelf?
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FAQs About Off Grid Living Books
What are the best off grid living books for beginners?
Some of the best beginner-friendly books include The Ultimate Guide to Off-Grid Living and Back to Basics. These guides cover everything from land selection to energy systems, perfect for anyone starting their journey.
Can off grid living books teach me how to generate my own power?
Yes! A highly recommended book is Off Grid Solar, which explains solar power setup step-by-step, making it easy for beginners and advanced users alike.
What topics do the best off grid living books cover?
Are off grid living books helpful for preppers and survivalists?
Absolutely! Titles like The Prepper’s Water Survival Guide and Survival Wisdom & Know How provide critical tips for preppers focused on water storage, food security, and off-grid resilience.
Do these off grid living books include gardening and food production?
Where can I buy the best books on off grid living?
Most of these books are available on Amazon for quick shipping and Kindle versions. Use the affiliate links provided above to grab your copy and support this blog.