Norm Abram

"Measure Twice, Cut Once" by Norm Abram is still, despite being nearly 30 years old as of this review, a good overview of carpentry tools, especially for the beginner. In addition to talking about a wide array of carpentry tools, Abram talks about their uses and provides hints and tips gathered over decades of experience in using the tools.

There are a few things that reveal the book's age. For example, in referring to the now-ubiquitous battery-powered drill and screw driver, he says he show more hasn't seen many carpenters use them. Somehow I find it harder to believe that EVERY carpenter doesn't have one on the job site. But most of what the author has to say is still quite relevant. While the tools might adapt to various changes over time, the principals remain fundamentally unaltered. show less

You will learn more about Norm Abram and life from this book than you will about carpentry. While talking about basic principles of carpentry, Abram explores the experiences that shaped his life and his philosophy. It is engaging and personal. I have it filed in my philosophy section, rather than in carpentry. It is a wonderful book.

Picked this up on a whim at my local library's book-sale and I'm glad I did. Told in a very clear yet entertaining style, the story of building a custom home is told from start to finish. Always love watching Norm on both "This Old House" and "The New Yankee Workshop", now I enjoy reading him as well. And I want that house!

Norm Abrams is a pro in the shop, but he's no bard. The language is clunky and the information doesn't flow. But, if you can look beyond all that, there's lots of good information in here.