Rob Roy (1)

As our author eventually points out, this book is slightly misleading: it is called "The Sauna," but is predominately about a very rare (although arguably superior) style of sauna construction called cordwood masonry. Although he makes a valiant effort to convince the reader at this style of construction, this decision could only really be made with a real life comparison, as the sauna is a visceral rather than cerebral experience.

First and foremost, this book is about cordwood masonry construction. If you're looking for a how-to, and know you want to use this construction style, I would recommend it. If you're just interested in learning about saunas, this is likely not the best place. As an afterthought (in this second addition), Roy did add in a section on stick-frame construction, but his heart isn't in it.

That said, my favorite material in the book is the generalist material about saunas, their culture, their history, the benefits, the experience. This is where I feel Roy's writing really shines, and also is the most compelling for me personally.

I have not yet built a cordwood sauna, and am left daughter rather than encouraged, as I have a moderate degree of proficiency with more traditional construction techniques, but none with cordwood masonry.… (altro)