The best gifts I've ever been given are books that friends have loved. When someone shares a book with you, they are giving you a piece of themselves. Thank you.
Shawn, you are a true renaissance man. I know you didn't go to college, but you could have. Your intellectual curiosity and breadth of reading is what educators hope is the result of a liberal arts education. Well done. My bushcraft interest began when I was 10 after watching, and then reading the book, "My Side of the Mountain".
I appreciate how open and sincere you are...At least you seem that way to me...I feel that you just speak as you feel and there is no need for you to be or feel any different...Very simple and humble...That is why we love watching you...I see myself in you...I can only speak for myself, yet I have a feeling that those are the qualities besides being very hard working attract most of us to your videos...Transparency is very important...Thank you for being you...
My "FIRST" Book i ever read was " MY SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN " about a little boy who leaves his home to live in the woods. about what plants that are edible, how to build shelters. how to make a hook to fish with. and now i'm watching Mr. Shawn James do just that.
Another great video! It's a very stressful time in my life, but, every time I sit down and watch one of your videos, I can really relax and forget about all my troubles. Thanks Shawn from the bottom of my heart
Greetings from PEI. Almost done watching, when you pulled out "Seed to Seed", I have that book as well. Niki Jabbour's "Year round Vegetable Gardener" is also great for Canadians, she is in Nova Scotial and has cold frames, hoop tunnels etc. I have "The Good Life" as well. The Nearings started in Vermont, didn't like the people, and moved to Maine. Eliot Coleman and his wife Barbara bought it and now run a successful Vegetable business there; "Four Season Farm". I have number of his books as well
You are so deep into the world and I admire your desire to learn. I am 77 and never have slowed down on learning. Love the life you have lived . Reminds me of the yrs I grew up living off the land. A big blessing for sure. Merle
Enjoyed this episode immensely. Books have been my friends for my entire life, since I was old enough to start reading for enjoyment, as a sickly asthmatic child. Although my health improved by the time I was a teen, I have never lost my love of reading. Through books, I learned about God, I traveled all over the world and universe, enjoyed amazing adventures, and even learned how to make and repair things. Thanks for sharing your bookshelves contents with us, and your thoughts on those books and others you have read. As always, stay safe. An Armchair Adventurer
Shawn I got the love for the out doors through joining Boy Scout, I think a lot of people would love to live like your doing but I really think it takes a special person to live like you do. Thanks for sharing your life and your lifestyle.
My don in lawwent all the way thru scouts ann now hates camping ,he knows how to doit and has camped out went on a trip thru canada ,with his dad as troop leader an the rest of the boy scouts ,but says he dont like camping at all ,because of his experience i dont understand it but its hiss feelings on it ,i love camping setting up an all of it ,
Thank you for sharing. You have given the gift of resources. I'm curious, I'm a reader, have been all my life. Age 4 I was trying to read a farmers vet book I found in our landlord's celler. . Having no inclination to get married again, books taught me how to be an independent woman who could repair simple sprinkler, plumbing repairs, or put up shelves in a bathroom, change the oil in my car etc. . I may never live out in the country again but doesn't mean I don't need to read how to survive!! Watch it!, here comes an opinion: When we cease to be curious, we cease to live.
So cool that you're into economics Shawn! I'm an economist by training, having both majored and minored in it. People often don't realize that econ's a moral philosophy at its core about the study of human wants, so I really appreciate that you recognize the value in it. If you enjoyed the book, you'll love the Freakonomics podcast too (if you haven't already come across it). One of the biggest drivers of change in the economy is technology itself - when you look at a basic output production function y = x ( L, C) ...where y's output, x is technology, L is labour, and C is capital... the x is a multiplier on the front of the entire function that's now increasing so quickly that it's also replacing the labour component inside of the function at an increasing rate, compounding itself, which in many cases sends output (y) through the roof. It results in ever increasing rates of consumption across the board, from food to entertainment and how much technology we use on a daily basis. That rapidly increasing Y output (or the accelerating delta of it) also represents most of the change we experience around us in our lives. For many, it reduces human interaction and physical health, while increasing things like stress and anxiety when we spend too much time in front of a screen, and not enough time spent outside playing or interacting with friends and family. It's why I'd encourage anyone to disconnect for a week, and spend that time outdoors with others :)
Great video! Getting ready for my 2nd winter camp at my property in northern Michigan in January. Should be better than last winters, I’ve really got my bunkhouse up to speed. Gonna try and make a good quality video to get my channel going. Using lots of your tips
Now I understand why I like you/your videos as either myself or my husband have read many of the same books as you! Nice List :) (FYI, The husband on Big Family Homestead Channel used to work for Zig Zigler :) Love Zig's books! A Zig Quote; "People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily."
You're 100% right! Books are great motivaters, everytime I read an outdoors book,I learn and makes me want to do stuff and try new things. Love your vids!
One of my favorites since I was a teenager is Beards book. Shelters, Shacks and Shanties. I love that book and still have it. One of the first books that inspired my outdoor passions, I cant remember the title of but I was in gradeschool and it was about a little girl who got lost in the woods and was saved and lived with a tribe of indians. She learned how to do all kinds of wonderful things but one day some one from her town found her and brought her home, and whilst she was happy to see everyone she missed her indian way of life and finally went back to it. I loved that book.
I do the same thing. Except I highlight after I finish them. I just love to read. Love books, hate Kindle. I love the feel of a book in my hands. The Little House on the Prarrie are awesome books.
Shawn I noticed that your 12V lighting system seems to be expanding. Can you do a video on what you used and where you got what you used. I hope to be putting lights in my off grid cottage this spring.
Hi Shawn: Thanks for a really great, thoughtful & revealing monologue.It occurs to me that many of the people following your exploits are of like mind to you. Personally, I'm an avid reader & you will always find some books with me on any canoe trip/ over nighter. After I got sober about 22 years ago My brother gave me a book I read each day called "God's Big Book Of Little Instructions" Not necessarily a religious book ,; but rather a spiritual book. I could give a list of the long retained books I have but "Tender Foot TO Queen Scout " is there, along with my logs of 20 years in the woods. Thanks very much , Brian 78
Shawn THANK YOU for your inspirational book list. I gave Tipping Point to my 21 year old son. Now he is on a personal journey of self discovery, reading book after book. Sally 🇬🇧🇫🇷
Interesting choices of books! I like them! I too, have a collection but they're mostly biographies. I find people interesting; their life journey, difficult experiences if any they've had, and how they overcame them, etc. This was a nice video Shawn!
This is wonderful! Thanks for always sharing your life with us. I have to say though, having your channels in my daily feed is quite motivating. Your constant drive to improve your homestead and your life drives me to want to do the same. So thank you for that!
Thanks Shawn....I’ve marked down a number of the books that you mention for future reading. A great series that was on PBS about woodworking using old tools from the 1600-1900s,was “The Woodrights Shop” with Roy Underhill....I think you would really enjoy it...he even shows how to make some of the more esoteric tools.
I am the same way in that i have a strong sense of curiosity and drive for learning about new things and am a very avid reader and some times I do let it consume me on some subjects but I love the process of exposing myself to new things now at sixty years of age it is a blessing all that I have acquired so far.
Good Saturday Shawn and thank you sharing your books! I love your book stopper of the male and female ducks. In Korean culture a pair set of the ducks are given to a newlywed couple for good luck!
Working my way through your videos and absolutely loving the book choices you have , they really are so informative and enjoyable so I have added these on my list add to my bookcase as love books , Thankyou for all your amazing insight :)
I really enjoy these library side chats Shawn. I admire your well rounded plethora of subjects, from economics and religion, to Bears and maple syrup. I have always been a voracious reader, but unfortunately nowadays am torn away by the rat race and cannot spend as much time at it. At times I get a little numb to it all, but find that when I return to a place of reading solitude, I become more curious, inspired, creative and motivated once again. Reading has helped me to abandon many of the biases that I was shaped with through ignorance, upbringing, environment and harsh circumstances. It has also helped me to retain and reinforce some biases towards unhealthy aspects of humanity, from economics to sociology and religion. All with a bigger heart towards humanity and people though. I can disagree strongly with someone without hating them, simply by logically understanding their perspective and influence, which was shaped over time as mine was in a different culture, socio economic and circumstantial environment. I don't hate them for it, and in fact try to help them with logic and facts if I can ( a different perspective). I have received help by some of them, when my mind was to narrow. I can hold fast to my belief and value system, be different and still a general humanitarian. Reading has allowed me to grow, and it has clearly done the same for you. Great insight, thank you Shawn!
Thank you so much for this information. I saved most of these titles to my wishlist on amazon. Some of the titles are very expensive, but i will buy them in time. What a great video!
Shawn, if you haven't read or heard of them the " FOXFIRE " books are a great wealth of knowledge. They are information gathered in the 1970's from older folks on how things were made or done years ago when they were younger. These have pictures and illustrations along with some stories and insight. These are a series of books that have a wealth of information. Love seeing and hearing what you do, thanks again for sharing with us.
Great selection of books Shawn. My Grandfather bought a book "How to be self-reliant with 5 acres" , it was very interesting and he bought 5 acres just north of Toronto. I'll check back with the author
Would you perhaps consider putting together a lengthy video of your drone footage? It's such an amazing quality, and I find it very soothing. By now, if you haven't erased the older stuff, you probably have enough footage to put together each of the four seasons, and then a longer year's worth compilation video. (If anyone else out there likes this idea, too, click the thumbs up so he knows just how many of us would even happily buy it!)
Hi Shawn. Thanks for the videos! Would appreciate if you could spend some time in a future video to talk on how to balance your self reliance passion with needs of other family members (eg for socializing/living in the city etc.)
Hi Shawn, I was lent a copy of 'Think and Grow Rich' when I was a young man. It is in tatters now through re-reading over many years. As I 'grew' I gradually I came to understand that it was not just a book about accumulating financial riches but also, and perhaps more importantly, about equipping ones character for every other worthwhile human endeavour, such as yours right now. All best wishes to you and your family
Great vid!!! What a wealth of info you have shared with us shawn. Thank you. I am interested in a lot of those books & i thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share your vast knowledge of self reliant living. I have always wanted to learn wood working, so thank you again.
Wonderful video Shawn. You have given us a wealth of good books to read. Your comment recommending to re-read certain chapters or books is good advice. This video has caused a torrent of book responses from your readers below. Some good and some I would dismiss. But you hit a nerve just the same. My first excitement with nature happened when my Dad rented a camper and took us on a camping trip around Lake Superior. The beauty and untouched Canadian wilderness with huge forests of pine trees and bears at night solidified my love of the great outdoors. Sometimes you just have to experience the moment. Cheers !
I love books as well. Seed to Seed, I agree, is an excellent book for reference and planning. Will you start seeds in your cabin in early spring for planting in 2019?
I have that book The Good LIfe by the Nearings.I got it back in the 70's when they had a regular feature in the mother earth news.One book you must have is The Frontiersmen by Allan Eckert.It all took place around where I live.One I liked when I was a boy was Bay of the North.Thanks for sharing.
Great video! It’s like coming back from vacation and your batteries are fully charged. It’s finding that motivation all the time and this is a great way to do that. Well done!!
Good stuff sir. I think you said it right in the beginning of the video. The worm hole. I talk to lots of people and they can be very scared of that. I find it to be very exciting! Vic
I love that you read or listen to something motivating every day to stay motivated! I’m finding more and more that I have to do the same thing. in fact I just did a podcast episode on the topic recently. It would be awesome to interview you some day! :D
SHAWN & OUR CALI !!! Hey how are you doing now in the new cabin ??? Been going through the play list of yours !!! Enjoy all of it !!! Have a trip going to Dick's place in Alaska planed on out now !!! It was last on the bucket list for me !!! Sometimes OLDER is better for Building log cabins & tables chairs in the place we want to live in !!!
Shawn, I am fascinated by your book collection. I look forward to checking out many of these titles. Also I wanted you to know that in addition to my interest in bushcraft and log cabin building, I fell in love with your channel while you were building your 1st cabin when I saw you using the hand tools. You used a hand drill just like one my dad had in his tools that had belonged to his father. This one object grabbed my attention and my emotions. I look at everything you have accomplished since that video, and continue to be blown away. Keep up the great work.
Great collection of reading Shawn. I would also recommend Patrick F. McManus. His books offer little in redeeming qualities...they won't teach you how to do anything, quite the contrary they may show you how not to do any given thing. But if you ever just want to "waste" a few hours laughing read McManus. He never fails to deliver.
A series of books by Elliott Merrick would fit right on your shelf. "True North" is a true account of his ride-along with fur trappers in eastern Canada during the 1920's. He met an Australian nurse at a native school, married her and tells of their life together. I think you would like the stories. Another is placed in Vermont during the Depression after they purchased a farm near Lake Champlain. Give them a try.
“Naked Ape” shattered a lot of illusions early in life. “My side of the mountain” never left my mind after reading it in grade school. “7 Habits” is a foundational bedrock for life.
I really enjoy your channel! Thanks for Sharing!! Have you added the Holy Bible to your library? Most important book of all!! And good reading on a cold winter day especially! Altho I do realize you are referring us to books that inspire outdoor living and bushcrafting etc. My favorite book as a kid was My Side of the Mountain!
Lots of black bears on Vancouver island and they occasionally are sighted within 10 miles of city of Victoria. They wander through our yard several times per year.One would expect them at your cabin but not hear near the city.
Watching you motivates me esp watching you in the cold 👀burrrrrrr When I’m cooking I am always reminded of scenes I’ve watch you cooking I really appreciate the similar ways we have as I work and live alone Staying motivated is difficult at times esp when it’s cold here Tonight it will hit 32 deg f I have to drain my well to keep it from freezing Have you thought about doing a well there ?
Shawn I enjoy your talks and would like to add a thought to your thoughts on the evolving of animal and human life. Could there be correlation because we and they have all been created/designed by the same designer/ creator?
Very inspirational video Shawn. Just wondering if you ever read Claude Bristol's The Power of Believing? Great book something you can read over and over. Cheers!
Dick Proenneke is a name I recognize. His story is quite interesting and inspiring. His final days were spent in Hemet, CA where my parents live to this day.
Hi Shawn, my “inspirational “ book that I tried to emulate as a young lad was Trap Lines North” by Stephen W. Meader. Written in the ‘30s and based about two brothers and their family in the Thunder Bay district. Awesome read.
Shawn u should do a small green house prch on the side of urr cabin that can be used as ur mud room b4 entering the cabin kill 2 birds with one stone,u can get a good head start on planting in a small green house as well as grow vveg in winter,
Thanks for the Book info , as I also love to read books that teach rather than entertain, My dad would insist we kids read and good books, . He even toss anything like comics..I was made to read at a young age of 10 Voltaire's works and many what I cal heavy reading . Today I am happy was made to read them ... Smile.. Ninette Bird- The Caribbean Wife.
Shawn, Well, generally I know what you are saying. I sit here S T Riley BSc (Econ)Hons and get it. Knowledge is power and then life and reality grounds you. The acknowledgement of the mix of the two generally leads to a good outcome. It is uncommon, can lead to success, but there are no guarantees. Enjoying your journey. Regards Stephen.
A book that I carry with me when I go outdoors is the SAS Survival pocket book. It's got just about everything in it on wilderness survival from shelters to skinning game. Colored pictures of trees and various plants (edible and non edible). Another story book I read was, My Side of the Mountain. I also have a passion for wolves( not the kind of passion like, oh how cute but a real honest love for wolves. I followed the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. The ongoing battle between ranchers and wildlife activists in various US states and Canada and as of late the release of wolves to Isle Royal over the next three years so as to control the moose population. Wolves to this day, get a bad wrap especially when it comes to ranchers who use public land for their cattle the want to eliminate the wolf and any predators that endanger their herds. Seem like a "no win" situation for the wolves.
I enjoy your psychological & financial perspectives. 2 personal favorite editions beautifully illustrated by Henry Bugbee Kane: Cache Lake Country by John J. Rowlands (1947), and Thoreau's The Maine Woods (1864).
The best gifts I've ever been given are books that friends have loved. When someone shares a book with you, they are giving you a piece of themselves. Thank you.
Shawn, you are a true renaissance man. I know you didn't go to college, but you could have. Your intellectual curiosity and breadth of reading is what educators hope is the result of a liberal arts education. Well done. My bushcraft interest began when I was 10 after watching, and then reading the book, "My Side of the Mountain".
My side of the Mountain was one of my favorites.
I appreciate how open and sincere you are...At least you seem that way to me...I feel that you just speak as you feel and there is no need for you to be or feel any different...Very simple and humble...That is why we love watching you...I see myself in you...I can only speak for myself, yet I have a feeling that those are the qualities besides being very hard working attract most of us to your videos...Transparency is very important...Thank you for being you...
My "FIRST" Book i ever read was " MY SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN " about a little boy who leaves his home to live in the woods. about what plants that are edible, how to build shelters. how to make a hook to fish with. and now i'm watching Mr. Shawn James do just that.
Another great video! It's a very stressful time in my life, but, every time I sit down and watch one of your videos, I can really relax and forget about all my troubles. Thanks Shawn from the bottom of my heart
Greetings from PEI. Almost done watching, when you pulled out "Seed to Seed", I have that book as well. Niki Jabbour's "Year round Vegetable Gardener" is also great for Canadians, she is in Nova Scotial and has cold frames, hoop tunnels etc. I have "The Good Life" as well. The Nearings started in Vermont, didn't like the people, and moved to Maine. Eliot Coleman and his wife Barbara bought it and now run a successful Vegetable business there; "Four Season Farm". I have number of his books as well
Thank you for sharing your books. It is always interesting to me to see what others read.
You are so deep into the world and I admire your desire to learn. I am 77 and never have slowed down on learning. Love the life you have lived . Reminds me of the yrs I grew up living off the land. A big blessing for sure. Merle
Thank You for sharing the information you have collected over time and for sharing your books, It was very interesting.
Hey Shawn, I'd have to say, watching your videos weekly are my forms of inspiration and motivation.
Enjoyed this episode immensely. Books have been my friends for my entire life, since I was old enough to start reading for enjoyment, as a sickly asthmatic child. Although my health improved by the time I was a teen, I have never lost my love of reading. Through books, I learned about God, I traveled all over the world and universe, enjoyed amazing adventures, and even learned how to make and repair things. Thanks for sharing your bookshelves contents with us, and your thoughts on those books and others you have read.
As always, stay safe.
An Armchair Adventurer
Shawn I got the love for the out doors through joining Boy Scout, I think a lot of people would love to live like your doing but I really think it takes a special person to live like you do. Thanks for sharing your life and your lifestyle.
My don in lawwent all the way thru scouts ann now hates camping ,he knows how to doit and has camped out went on a trip thru canada ,with his dad as troop leader an the rest of the boy scouts ,but says he dont like camping at all ,because of his experience i dont understand it but its hiss feelings on it ,i love camping setting up an all of it ,
Thank you for sharing. You have given the gift of resources. I'm curious, I'm a reader, have been all my life. Age 4 I was trying to read a farmers vet book I found in our landlord's celler. . Having no inclination to get married again, books taught me how to be an independent woman who could repair simple sprinkler, plumbing repairs, or put up shelves in a bathroom, change the oil in my car etc. . I may never live out in the country again but doesn't mean I don't need to read how to survive!! Watch it!, here comes an opinion: When we cease to be curious, we cease to live.
So cool that you're into economics Shawn! I'm an economist by training, having both majored and minored in it. People often don't realize that econ's a moral philosophy at its core about the study of human wants, so I really appreciate that you recognize the value in it. If you enjoyed the book, you'll love the Freakonomics podcast too (if you haven't already come across it). One of the biggest drivers of change in the economy is technology itself - when you look at a basic output production function y = x ( L, C) ...where y's output, x is technology, L is labour, and C is capital... the x is a multiplier on the front of the entire function that's now increasing so quickly that it's also replacing the labour component inside of the function at an increasing rate, compounding itself, which in many cases sends output (y) through the roof. It results in ever increasing rates of consumption across the board, from food to entertainment and how much technology we use on a daily basis. That rapidly increasing Y output (or the accelerating delta of it) also represents most of the change we experience around us in our lives. For many, it reduces human interaction and physical health, while increasing things like stress and anxiety when we spend too much time in front of a screen, and not enough time spent outside playing or interacting with friends and family. It's why I'd encourage anyone to disconnect for a week, and spend that time outdoors with others :)
You know, Shawn, I actually watch many of your videos just to hear you talk about life. You are quite inspirational yourself.
Great video! Getting ready for my 2nd winter camp at my property in northern Michigan in January. Should be better than last winters, I’ve really got my bunkhouse up to speed. Gonna try and make a good quality video to get my channel going. Using lots of your tips
Now I understand why I like you/your videos as either myself or my husband have read many of the same books as you! Nice List :) (FYI, The husband on Big Family Homestead Channel used to work for Zig Zigler :) Love Zig's books! A Zig Quote; "People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily."
Thank you for sharing. Blessing to your family and Cali.
You are a man of many interests. Thanks for sharing this with us Shawn. 👍😁
You're 100% right! Books are great motivaters, everytime I read an outdoors book,I learn and makes me want to do stuff and try new things. Love your vids!
One of my favorites since I was a teenager is Beards book. Shelters, Shacks and Shanties. I love that book and still have it. One of the first books that inspired my outdoor passions, I cant remember the title of but I was in gradeschool and it was about a little girl who got lost in the woods and was saved and lived with a tribe of indians. She learned how to do all kinds of wonderful things but one day some one from her town found her and brought her home, and whilst she was happy to see everyone she missed her indian way of life and finally went back to it. I loved that book.
Books allow you the time to digest the info. Much better that social media that tries to digest the data for you. Nice post sir.
I do the same thing. Except I highlight after I finish them. I just love to read. Love books, hate Kindle. I love the feel of a book in my hands. The Little House on the Prarrie are awesome books.
Kindle better than nothing, but nothing beats holding a book!!
Shawn I noticed that your 12V lighting system seems to be expanding. Can you do a video on what you used and where you got what you used. I hope to be putting lights in my off grid cottage this spring.
Hi Shawn: Thanks for a really great, thoughtful & revealing monologue.It occurs to me that many of the people following your exploits are of like mind to you. Personally, I'm an avid reader & you will always find some books with me on any canoe trip/ over nighter. After I got sober about 22 years ago My brother gave me a book I read each day called "God's Big Book Of Little Instructions" Not necessarily a religious book ,; but rather a spiritual book. I could give a list of the long retained books I have but "Tender Foot TO Queen Scout " is there, along with my logs of 20 years in the woods. Thanks very much , Brian 78
Shawn THANK YOU for your inspirational book list. I gave Tipping Point to my 21 year old son. Now he is on a personal journey of self discovery, reading book after book. Sally 🇬🇧🇫🇷
Interesting choices of books! I like them! I too, have a collection but they're mostly biographies. I find people interesting; their life journey, difficult experiences if any they've had, and how they overcame them, etc. This was a nice video Shawn!
This is wonderful! Thanks for always sharing your life with us. I have to say though, having your channels in my daily feed is quite motivating. Your constant drive to improve your homestead and your life drives me to want to do the same. So thank you for that!
Thanks Shawn....I’ve marked down a number of the books that you mention for future reading. A great series that was on PBS about woodworking using old tools from the 1600-1900s,was “The Woodrights Shop” with Roy Underhill....I think you would really enjoy it...he even shows how to make some of the more esoteric tools.
Roy Underhill also did a ted talk entitled "Have Broad Axe Will Travel" . Interesting concepts using woodworking metaphors.
Ahhh...I missed that. But his show was really interesting.
I am the same way in that i have a strong sense of curiosity and drive for learning about new things and am a very avid reader and some times I do let it consume me on some subjects but I love the process of exposing myself to new things now at sixty years of age it is a blessing all that I have acquired so far.
Clara Mullen I feel the same 👍🏼
Good Saturday Shawn and thank you sharing your books! I love your book stopper of the male and female ducks. In Korean culture a pair set of the ducks are given to a newlywed couple for good luck!
That's interesting to learn about Korean culture. I believe that Shawn actually carved those ducks himself. I think they are beautiful. Cheers
@@coreenmcnally2505 I do know that Shawn is very creative by looking at his videos!
Great video. A deeper look into what drives you. Really enjoyed it
Very good collection. Quite well-rounded. Thanks for sharing! :)
Working my way through your videos and absolutely loving the book choices you have , they really are so informative and enjoyable so I have added these on my list add to my bookcase as love books , Thankyou for all your amazing insight :)
I really enjoy these library side chats Shawn. I admire your well rounded plethora of subjects, from economics and religion, to Bears and maple syrup. I have always been a voracious reader, but unfortunately nowadays am torn away by the rat race and cannot spend as much time at it.
At times I get a little numb to it all, but find that when I return to a place of reading solitude, I become more curious, inspired, creative and motivated once again. Reading has helped me to abandon many of the biases that I was shaped with through ignorance, upbringing, environment and harsh circumstances. It has also helped me to retain and reinforce some biases towards unhealthy aspects of humanity, from economics to sociology and religion. All with a bigger heart towards humanity and people though.
I can disagree strongly with someone without hating them, simply by logically understanding their perspective and influence, which was shaped over time as mine was in a different culture, socio economic and circumstantial environment. I don't hate them for it, and in fact try to help them with logic and facts if I can ( a different perspective). I have received help by some of them, when my mind was to narrow. I can hold fast to my belief and value system, be different and still a general humanitarian. Reading has allowed me to grow, and it has clearly done the same for you. Great insight, thank you Shawn!
Book lover here. Thanks very much for this episode.
Thank you so much for this information. I saved most of these titles to my wishlist on amazon. Some of the titles are very expensive, but i will buy them in time. What a great video!
Shawn, if you haven't read or heard of them the " FOXFIRE " books are a great wealth of knowledge. They are information gathered in the 1970's from older folks on how things were made or done years ago when they were younger. These have pictures and illustrations along with some stories and insight. These are a series of books that have a wealth of information.
Love seeing and hearing what you do, thanks again for sharing with us.
Great selection of books Shawn. My Grandfather bought a book "How to be self-reliant with 5 acres" , it was very interesting and he bought 5 acres just north of Toronto. I'll check back with the author
Great post
Would you perhaps consider putting together a lengthy video of your drone footage? It's such an amazing quality, and I find it very soothing. By now, if you haven't erased the older stuff, you probably have enough footage to put together each of the four seasons, and then a longer year's worth compilation video. (If anyone else out there likes this idea, too, click the thumbs up so he knows just how many of us would even happily buy it!)
+1
what an awesome idea!!!! i would love that too
Hi Shawn. Thanks for the videos! Would appreciate if you could spend some time in a future video to talk on how to balance your self reliance passion with needs of other family members (eg for socializing/living in the city etc.)
Hi Shawn,
I was lent a copy of 'Think and Grow Rich' when I was a young man. It is in tatters now through re-reading over many years. As I 'grew' I gradually I came to understand that it was not just a book about accumulating financial riches but also, and perhaps more importantly, about equipping ones character for every other worthwhile human endeavour, such as yours right now. All best wishes to you and your family
Thank you Shawn James! Respect and love from Bulgaria!
Great vid!!! What a wealth of info you have shared with us shawn. Thank you. I am interested in a lot of those books & i thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share your vast knowledge of self reliant living. I have always wanted to learn wood working, so thank you again.
Hi Shawn, seems like I am kinda late here. Nice to be here again. Lovely books shelves you did.
Books taught me so much, that others just can’t teach you.
And can take you places, never imagined.
Wonderful video Shawn. You have given us a wealth of good books to read. Your comment recommending to re-read certain chapters or books is good advice. This video has caused a torrent of book responses from your readers below. Some good and some I would dismiss. But you hit a nerve just the same.
My first excitement with nature happened when my Dad rented a camper and took us on a camping trip around Lake Superior. The beauty and untouched Canadian wilderness with huge forests of pine trees and bears at night solidified my love of the great outdoors. Sometimes you just have to experience the moment. Cheers !
Thanks again !! I love to find new or different books to read, no matter how old. Sometimes the older the better :):)
I love books as well. Seed to Seed, I agree, is an excellent book for reference and planning. Will you start seeds in your cabin in early spring for planting in 2019?
Thank you so much for this video! I've been so curious as to the books you had with you - now I know!! Have a great day!
I have that book The Good LIfe by the Nearings.I got it back in the 70's when they had a regular feature in the mother earth news.One book you must have is The Frontiersmen by Allan Eckert.It all took place around where I live.One I liked when I was a boy was Bay of the North.Thanks for sharing.
Shawn I also enjoy a good read..
Dick prenoke is one of my favorites. I also have a couple of his videos. Have a good one..
Great video! It’s like coming back from vacation and your batteries are fully charged. It’s finding that motivation all the time and this is a great way to do that. Well done!!
Good stuff sir. I think you said it right in the beginning of the video. The worm hole. I talk to lots of people and they can be very scared of that. I find it to be very exciting!
Vic
Those are some nice books in your shelve. Thank you for sharing, Shawn.
Shawn James
" MAN OF THE WORLD" !
I love that you read or listen to something motivating every day to stay motivated! I’m finding more and more that I have to do the same thing. in fact I just did a podcast episode on the topic recently. It would be awesome to interview you some day! :D
Thank you , Shawn .
SHAWN & OUR CALI !!! Hey how are you doing now in the new cabin ??? Been going through the play list of yours !!! Enjoy all of it !!! Have a trip going to Dick's place in Alaska planed on out now !!! It was last on the bucket list for me !!! Sometimes OLDER is better for Building log cabins & tables chairs in the place we want to live in !!!
Shawn, I am fascinated by your book collection. I look forward to checking out many of these titles.
Also I wanted you to know that in addition to my interest in bushcraft and log cabin building, I fell in love with your channel while you were building your 1st cabin when I saw you using the hand tools. You used a hand drill just like one my dad had in his tools that had belonged to his father. This one object grabbed my attention and my emotions.
I look at everything you have accomplished since that video, and continue to be blown away. Keep up the great work.
I also read books for motivation, plus I watch You-tube videos such as yours for the same reason. Keep up the good work.
I think that i want to read more books about self reliance :-) I can see how much they have helped you Shawn :-)
Great collection of reading Shawn. I would also recommend Patrick F. McManus. His books offer little in redeeming qualities...they won't teach you how to do anything, quite the contrary they may show you how not to do any given thing. But if you ever just want to "waste" a few hours laughing read McManus. He never fails to deliver.
Thanks to reading books, our imagination is unlimited, and some stories in these books can be transferred into real life. GREAT VLOG SHAWN!!!
You're a true renaissance man! Love your video content.
... on both of your channels.
Thank you very much for your videos I really enjoy them I learned a lot from you
I can totally relate. On staying inspired and motivated
" For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul." Matthew 16:26
love seeing what he does and how he dos it
A series of books by Elliott Merrick would fit right on your shelf. "True North" is a true account of his ride-along with fur trappers in eastern Canada during the 1920's. He met an Australian nurse at a native school, married her and tells of their life together. I think you would like the stories. Another is placed in Vermont during the Depression after they purchased a farm near Lake Champlain. Give them a try.
“Naked Ape” shattered a lot of illusions early in life. “My side of the mountain” never left my mind after reading it in grade school. “7 Habits” is a foundational bedrock for life.
I really enjoy your channel! Thanks for Sharing!! Have you added the Holy Bible to your library? Most important book of all!! And good reading on a cold winter day especially! Altho I do realize you are referring us to books that inspire outdoor living and bushcrafting etc. My favorite book as a kid was My Side of the Mountain!
Lots of black bears on Vancouver island and they occasionally are sighted within 10 miles of city of Victoria. They wander through our yard several times per year.One would expect them at your cabin but not hear near the city.
Loved reading Farley Mowat's book as a child ... I think I wore it out!!
Watching you motivates me esp watching you in the cold 👀burrrrrrr
When I’m cooking I am always reminded of scenes I’ve watch you cooking
I really appreciate the similar ways we have as I work and live alone
Staying motivated is difficult at times esp when it’s cold here
Tonight it will hit 32 deg f
I have to drain my well to keep it from freezing
Have you thought about doing a well there ?
Shawn I enjoy your talks and would like to add a thought to your thoughts on the evolving of animal and human life. Could there be correlation because we and they have all been created/designed by the same designer/ creator?
A-ha ! I thought you were a REALIST ! I hope you know what I mean by that. Glad to see that. Awesome video Shawn
Hi Shawn we enjoy your channel so much. Do you live at the cabin 24/7 and how often do you see you wife and family?
Very inspirational video Shawn. Just wondering if you ever read Claude Bristol's The Power of Believing? Great book something you can read over and over. Cheers!
Jack London is certainly a favorite read. Have you read any Joseph Conrad?
Dick Proenneke is a name I recognize. His story is quite interesting and inspiring. His final days were spent in Hemet, CA where my parents live to this day.
Great video Shawn. Nice to have books if the internet crashes
Hi Shawn, my “inspirational “ book that I tried to emulate as a young lad was Trap Lines North” by Stephen W. Meader. Written in the ‘30s and based about two brothers and their family in the Thunder Bay district. Awesome read.
Shawn u should do a small green house prch on the side of urr cabin that can be used as ur mud room b4 entering the cabin kill 2 birds with one stone,u can get a good head start on planting in a small green house as well as grow vveg in winter,
Thanks you Shawn for sharing your videos god bless you
There is so much to learn about many subjects that I sometimes feel frustration that I am unable to digest it all 🤯 lol; thank you for the sharing ☺️
Algonquin Park is were I go in my mind when I think "back home".
Now living 12,000kms away in Brisbane
Thanks for the Book info , as I also love to read books that teach rather than entertain, My dad would insist we kids read and good books, . He even toss anything like comics..I was made to read at a young age of 10 Voltaire's works and many what I cal heavy reading . Today I am happy was made to read them ... Smile.. Ninette Bird- The Caribbean Wife.
Nice book place you do Mr James 📚
List of books to read and to re-read is a great idea. Thanks.
Very cool . I love reading, thanks Sean
I used to have a copy of Bluegrass Banjo. Probably in a box somewhere.
Shawn, Well, generally I know what you are saying. I sit here S T Riley BSc (Econ)Hons and get it. Knowledge is power and then life and reality grounds you. The acknowledgement of the mix of the two generally leads to a good outcome. It is uncommon, can lead to success, but there are no guarantees. Enjoying your journey. Regards Stephen.
I will definitely check out that book👍
Happy new year Shawn nice video.
Great motivational book from the 1950's. Wake up and Live. I normally buy books but downloaded this for $2. Amazing book recommended by Og Mandino.
A book that I carry with me when I go outdoors is the SAS Survival pocket book. It's got just about everything in it on wilderness survival from shelters to skinning game. Colored pictures of trees and various plants (edible and non edible). Another story book I read was, My Side of the Mountain. I also have a passion for wolves( not the kind of passion like, oh how cute but a real honest love for wolves. I followed the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. The ongoing battle between ranchers and wildlife activists in various US states and Canada and as of late the release of wolves to Isle Royal over the next three years so as to control the moose population. Wolves to this day, get a bad wrap especially when it comes to ranchers who use public land for their cattle the want to eliminate the wolf and any predators that endanger their herds. Seem like a "no win" situation for the wolves.
I think the sas survival pocket book should be edible.
I enjoy your psychological & financial perspectives. 2 personal favorite editions beautifully illustrated by Henry Bugbee Kane: Cache Lake Country by John J. Rowlands (1947), and Thoreau's The Maine Woods (1864).
May I suggest you read Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan.
Shawn, Could you give me a link to that wool winter hat you have that has the ear flaps on it. Thank you