Essential Reading

We wish to set up a semi- self- contained household unit, based largely on a use economy, and, as far as possible, independent of the price-profit economy which surrounds us.  
The Good Life- Scott and Helen Nearing

As much as Naomi and I have spent time doing physical work associated with living a more self- sufficient life, we've spent time finding ways to hone our skills as well.  Below is a partial list of some of the books I've read in the past year that have either directly or indirectly aided me with skills, ideas, suggestions, or other information in this ongoing quest.  They're listed in no particular order other than the one in which I happen to recall them Naomi has arranged them.
Five Acres and Independence by M.G. Kains(1935) Dover
Folks, This Ain't Normal: A Farmer's Advice for Happier Hens, Healthier People, and A Better World by Joel Salatin(2011) Center Street Press
Holy Shit: Managing Manure to Save Mankind by Gene Logsdon(2010)
Mini Farming: Self- Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre by Brett L. Markham(2010) Skyhorse Publishing
Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World by Paul Stamets(2005) Ten Speed Press
Root Cellaring: Natural Cold Storage of Fruits & Vegetables by Mike and Nancy Bubel(1991) Storey Publishing
Seed to Seed by Suzanne Ashworth(2002) Seed Savers Exchange, Inc.
Sepp Holzer's Permaculture: A Practical Guide to Small-Scale, Integrative Farming and Gardening by Sepp Holzer(2004) Chelsea Green Publishing Company
Small Scale Grain Raising by Gene Logsdon(1977) Rodale Press, Inc
Teaming with Microbes: The Organic Gardener's Guide to the Soil Food Web by Jeff Lowenfels(2010) Timber Press
Weeds: Guardians of the Soil by Joseph A Cocannouer(1950) The Devin-Adair Company

I'm sure there are others, but these are the ones that really stuck out in my mind.  My To-Read list is twice as long, and I hope I can get through more of them in enough time to make a meaningful impact in the coming season!