4 out of 5 stars.
I would like to thank Storey Publishing for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an open and honest review.
I have had an interest in soap making for some time – as I buy homemade soap, rather than a mass made chemical brick – and I have to say ‘Pure Soapmaking’ has given me a much greater respect for my soap maker!
What an amazing and inspiring book. And such a well written and fact filled tome it is too. I knew making your own soap was tricky and you needed to be very dedicate to doing it – but even I didn’t realise it was THIS complex! And the beauty of it is ‘Pure Soapmaking’ explains clearly the necessity of its complexity and actually encourages the reader to go out and give it a try at the same time!
This book is obviously written by someone who is not only skilled in soap making, but passionate about it too. It shows it how much attention to detail she uses to teach this skill to others.
And the different types of soaps made – I wouldn’t know where to begin! Actually, I do. I would start with the basic one the book recommends you start with as, quite frankly, the author knows what she’s talking about so go with her guidance!
The details in ‘Pure Soapmaking’ from the basic making of soaps, the dyes, the scents, etc. are comprehensive and easy to follow. A fantastic all round book.
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would. Anyone even remotely interested in learning the art of making soap should read this book. I was new to the whole topic myself and feel it covered everything perfectly.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Funny thing is… no I wouldn’t. Please, don’t get me wrong, this is a fantastic book. But it has made me realise I’m just not ready to start making soap myself. I have a lot of things on my plate right now and this book has taught me a major thing – soap making can be fun… but it is a fine art. And one you need a lot of time and dedication to learn and master. Right now I don’t have that time or dedication… which is why I wouldn’t buy it. However, if I was ever to decide I was ready to start making soap – ‘Pure Soapmaking’ would be the book I would reach for.
In summary: a well-written, comprehensive and impressively detailed book on how to make soap. It really displays exactly the skill and dedication that goes into this craft… this ART. And I’m going to remember that the next time I reach for some of my handmade Scrumpy soap.
Until next time,
Janis.
Janis's Journal 