The Foxfire books are a famous collection of stories about living in old Appalachia, in self-sufficient communities that took care of their needs locally. These stories provide a wonderful link between the practical experience of self-sufficient living of the past and our desire for the same in the present. Here is the world of our grandparents and great-parents, in which DIY was less a believe and more a necessary way of life. These are classic books, great if you're interested in cultural history or DIY as it actually existed, nested in a community. In the Foxfire books, practical tips for self-sufficiency are mingled with a living philosophy of community support and shared work.
From the Table of Contents of book 12:
Learning to Square Dance
A Devilishly Creative Potter
Precision Wood
John Huron: Instrument Maker
The Making of Rose Beads
Turtles from Creek to Crock
World War veteran stories
Cherokee Stories