This is up with Storey's guide to raising chickens in terms of book I'd recommend to chicken newcomers. I own a copy, and reference it frequently- there's a fantastic combination of general information to get you started and in depth analysis for more interesting reading. It goes over breeds, feeding and watering, coop building, flock maintenance, predator proofing (and dealing with predators in general), illness, diagnostic criteria, and suggestions for action, breeding, showing, and more. It talks about raising chickens for pets, eggs, and meat, although it does not really go into the actual butchering process.
It's well written, a fun read, and one of my favorite chicken manuals. If you can only buy one chicken book, I'd highly recommend this one.
It's well written, a fun read, and one of my favorite chicken manuals. If you can only buy one chicken book, I'd highly recommend this one.
