The Perfect rucksack library

We like to give credit to our sources so here we share the books, bloggers, videos, podcasts and courses that influence us.

There is a lot of information out there and one of the things we like to do at Perfect Rucksack is to gather all sorts of apparently unconnected things and piece them together in a helpful way.

We really appreciate the amazing people out there putting out great content and this page will help to point you to places where you can delve more deeply into places that interest you in your learning and teaching.

If we end up in a future where we need to use the old skills of living your library will be your best friend so we will be recommending books worthy of their place on your shelves.

Aids to Scouting for NCOs and men - Robert Baden-Powell

This little book was the first written by Robert Baden Powell in 1899 after his experiences in reconnaissance with Frederick Russell Burnham and is the seed from which the Scout movement grew. It contains clear and concise information about the art and skills of reconnaissance, moving through the countryside, tracking, drawing, observation and details many exercises and games to play to hone scouting skills.

I enjoy the subtle clues in the writing that suggest that Baden-Powell was a skilled and nature-connected tracker himself in a way that would be recognised by todays masters such as Tom Brown Jnr, Jon Young and Bill McConnell.

I’m a Scout leader in my village and am continually amazed at how relevant the fundamentals of scouting continue to be even now.

The original linen-bound version is now rare and valuable (and I would love to own one) but it is available as a PDF download, a Kindle version and as a paperback facsimile.