Reinventing The Chicken Coop, by Kevin McElroy/Matthew Wolpe

If you have baby chicks in the brooder, but aren't set up for housing them outside yet you're running late - but don't despair. This new book, Reinventing The Chicken Coop can save you. How can you go wrong when you have a lesson on tools, a complete supplies list, and easy-to-understand instructions to follow?

The only challenge may be that of deciding between the 14 models included in this book - since you may not have the luxury of an indecisive  'kid in a candy store' mentality. Every one of these 14 coops has style and is set up to function well for both the chickens and human keepers. Each coop was built for specific people, locations, and the architectural design that coordinated with the land and existing buildings. The authors, Kevin McElroy and Matthew Wolpe, really did their homework learning about the needs of chickens and their owners.

One model fits into a corner, in case that's the only space you have on your lot to put a coop. Another has stair steps incorporated into it (you can sit on the steps and relax to the soothing sound of  'chicken talk'), and then there's my favorite, which resembles a log cabin (it'd look great out in the wilderness). The variety is such that, if you're planning to build a chicken coop, you're sure to find a model that suits your needs. I also like the one with a 'rooftop garden' on top. Frankly, they're all really sharp looking, so you just need to see them for yourself.

If you've ever dreamed up a really cool coop design,but couldn't figure out how to get started with the foundation or attach a roof  - you'll get that 'aha moment' you've been wishing for. Even I can figure out the diagrams - and the only thing I can remember from my construction class is "righty tighty, lefty loosey", which comes in handy if you need to tighten or loosen a screw.

Whether you follow one of the plans to the letter, or make minor adjustments to suit your individual needs you'll end up with a chicken coop you'll be proud to show off when friends and neighbors stop by to see your chickens. The authors recommend materials that'll save money, too. If you have a source for pallets, shipping containers, or  scrap lumber . . . you owe it to yourself to get this book, assemble your tools and safety equipment and take action! Be sure to send a picture when your work is done!

Hop on over to the publishers at  www.storey.com and check out this book!