If you want to build a Greenland style kayak, this is a good place to start. Having read through several instructional books on kayak construction, it boils down to two books that are very nearly equals (in my opinion): This one, and Cunningham's "Building the Greenland Kayak: A Manual for its construction and use". The craft described by Mark Starr here is true to its origins, and lends heavily from the craft described by H.C. Petersen in his book "Instruction in kayak building", which has become THE reference book for authors in this genre. Petersens book is legendary, but the instructions could be difficult to follow for the first time builder, and the book itself is hard to come by. The craft and techniques in Starr's book are well described and illustrated, and the instructions are easy to follow. You can build a beautiful kayak from this book, one that will leave hardcore Greenland traditional paddlers green with envy in your minimal wake. Personally, I'm leaning towards Cunningham's book for my future project, but it's all about personal preference. In Starr's book (the one reviewed here) you'll get detailed instructions for building a Greenland style kayak and a matching paddle, true to the original crafts used by the ancient Inuits of Greenland. You'll also find all the tips you need on tools, techniques (like steam bending and the equipment you need to make for this) and materials. I chose Cunningham's book over this one because it contains instructions for additional gear, lots of additional tips to make the project easier to accomplish, and some ingenious modifications to the original craft, and lots of jigs that make the build easier without compromising the feel and seaworthiness of the finished craft. You'd be hard pressed to see or even feel the difference between crafts made from these two books. For the hardcore Greenland style enthusiast, Cunningham's modifications might be tough to swallow. If this is the case for you, then Mark Starr's book is the one you should choose.