I bought this recently and have tried several times to sit down and read it and just cannot get through more than a few pages of it here and there. The book rambles and is not at all enjoyable to read; I found it tiresome and boring. The recipes in the back are probably the only reason I'll keep the book. I know Charlie Papazian is revered in the homebrewing world so I really WANT to like this book. I'd have a look at the book in your local bookstore and judge for yourself before buying.