Books to help build an awesome tree house

Perhaps there is no children’s play structure more iconic than a tree house, and building a tree house together can become a precious memory for both parents and children. Here are a few reads to help guide those who are interested in building a tree house, as well as a few books for those building playhouses that are closer to the ground.

‘The Complete Guide to Building Your Own Tree House: For Parents and Adults Who are Kids at Heart’

By Robert Miskimon

This book and companion CD provide a wealth of information about how to build a tree house, including tips about supports, windows and accessories such as a fireman’s pole, swings, a zip line, a crow’s nest and more.

‘Everything You Need for a Treehouse’

By Carter Higgins and Emily Hughes

While this picture book does not provide the information adults need to build a tree house, it can inspire lots of joy in youngsters, who can learn about the structures and improve their reading skills while enjoying the lovely illustrations.

‘How to Build Treehouses, Huts and Forts’

By David Stiles

Cute illustrations are a complement to this handbook, which provides beginner-friendly instructions for projects ranging from a simple A-frame structure and a lean-to to a 21-foot-tall lookout tower and an igloo.

‘Keep Out!:

Build Your Own Backyard Clubhouse’

By Lee Mothes

The whole family can enjoy the building process with this handbook, which provides simple step-by-step instructions and kidfriendly design ideas that will allow families to construct a hideout that children can play in for years.

‘The Perfect Treehouse:

From Site Selection to Design & Construction’

By Django Kroner

Prospective tree-house inhabitants can aim high with this guide, which provides building instructions that include tips for choosing a suitable tree, selecting tools and materials, and building with the health of the tree in mind.

‘Playhouses You Can Build:

Indoor and Backyard Designs’

By David and Jeanie Stiles

Beginning carpenters can build a backyard playhouse for children by following the step-by-step instructions in this guide, which includes projects ranging from a cardboard-box playhouse to a UFO playhouse.

‘The Treehouse Book:

A Celebration of Design and Fun Among the Treetops’

By Candida Collins

Tree-house fans can find plenty of eye candy in this read, which showcases 20 tree houses that include furniture, plumbing and electricity. The book also provides a section on plans and techniques for building an outstanding tree house.