How to Brew: Everything You Need To Know To Brew Beer Right The First Time

I bought this book earlier this year (2008) when starting out in homebrewing. I've done just 2 batches so far and have used this book as my "Bible." For me, a beginning brewer, it has been indespensible. The book is well written, clear, easy to follow and with good pictures of key steps. I have several other books on the topic also, two by the "daddy of home brewing" and this one is the best for my money! Highly recommended for the beginner to the advanced brewer.

Reviewer who states this book is "very basic" is WAY, WAY, whacked. This is without a doubt the best home brewing book to start with and you will come back and reference it often after brewing for a while. Exensively covers many ares of homebrewing. It will answer just about any question you will have. Palmer knows beer inside and out and explains everything clearly and concisely.

Great how-to book. Good explanations, step-by-step instructions, background information and technical guidance. Clearly written in a light mood. Includes recipes, visuals and troubleshooting section. Everything you need to brew right.

This book was just what I needed to help me understand my fanatic friend who can't stop talking about brewing...although I have to admit, the beer is very good!
It is just what I needed to get me started.

I love this book. It manages to be one of the best basic (in this case inclusive of both extract as well as main-line all-grain techniques) brewing books while still touching on a number of advanced subjects. Like another reviewer, I also like Dave Miller's book (Dave Miller's Homebrewing Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Make Great-Tasting Beer) and regard Palmer's and Miller's books as very complementary and both essential reading for all-grain brewers. I read both again last weekend and value both for different reasons. I also highly recommend the Fixes' book (An Analysis of Brewing Techniques) for its topical coverage. Narrow (few topics), but very detailed and informative.

This is an updated version of Palmer's book. I have the earlier version but recently leafed through the new version and intend to buy it. It has updated and more complete information on a number of topics, notably batch sparging, that make it worthwhile buying the newer edition.