Friday Find: Defending Your Castle – The Book!

Pre-marriage, I never knew the difference between a catapult and a trebuchet. Now? After 13 years of sharing the remote with a History and Discovery Channel freak, I know more than I ever thought I would about medieval defense.

But not nearly as much as William Gurstelle does. He's an engineer, ballistics expert and contributing editor to Popular Mechanics. And this week I received his book in the mail, Defending Your Castle. Which is destined to become pretty much the best Father's Day gift ever.

This is not just a book for military history buffs. With 70 photos and 35 illustrations, this book offers information and techniques to anyone looking to build Da Vinci's Catapult, unlock the secrets of the Huns, or just keep an eye on unwelcome neighbors via a field expedient watchtower.

So take a break from thinking of practical, realistic ways of improving your home. Give your favorite DIY'er or homeowner this fascinating, informative book and let them fantasize a little.
I mean – who hasn't dreamed of installing a moat around their suburban home??