Lapstrake Canoes by David L. Nichols.
Breakaway Books, 2007.
$21.95; 160 pp. 

Lapstrake canoes are built by overlapping thin planks of plywood to make a lightweight, strong and stable boat. In the introduction to Lapstrake Canoes, author David Nichols says anyone with only a little experience with boatbuilding can build his canoes with the help of his book. An experienced boat builder might only need the plans for the 3 canoes included in the book. Lapstrake Canoes provides step-by-step instructions for building the canoes as well as a downwind sail and a double-bladed paddle. The instructions are aided by color photos and drawings throughout.