Let me start by saying this book is a GAME-CHANGER for anyone interested in temperate forest farming. I've been dabbling in permaculture for years, and this is hands-down one of the most practical resources I've come across.

The mushroom cultivation section alone is worth the price. As someone who's struggled with failed mushroom logs in the past, the detailed instructions and photos finally helped me get it right. My shiitake harvest last season was incredible!

What really stands out is how the authors blend traditional knowledge with modern permaculture principles. The economic info (though slightly dated) gives fascinating insights into making forest farming viable - though like other reviewers, I mostly grow for personal use.

The book does have some weak spots. I was disappointed by the limited info on tapping birch trees (something I really wanted to try), and some sections feel more like textbook material than practical guidance. The black-and-white illustrations can make plant ID challenging too.

Where this book shines is in its holistic approach. It's not just about growing food - it covers everything from medicinal plants to sustainable wood harvesting. The nursery propagation chapter saved me hundreds of dollars in plant purchases!

Pro tip: Pair this with 'Integrated Forest Gardening' as several reviewers suggested. Together they cover nearly everything you'd need to transform a woodlot into a productive ecosystem.

While not perfect (I'd kill for an updated edition with current pricing info), this remains my most dog-eared reference book. If you're serious about forest farming, it belongs on your shelf - just be prepared for some dense reading between those brilliant nuggets of wisdom!