This is a superb little book. The introduction enlightened me on some basic principles of rope and cordage -- did you know each time you double the diameter of a rope you quadruple the strength? The techy stuff like this is a short section at the outset and is easy to follow. Then there's the bit you want to know -- how to make that bowline or anchor knot. It is easy once you have been shown show. Each knot gets its own introduction, with a description of uses and diagrams to show you how to tie it. I mastered two knots in just a few minutes thanks to this book -- definitely worth the asking price.