With grave predictions about higher fuel prices, peak oil and climate change, we are all looking for greener alternatives to heat our homes and cook our food. The wood burner is now the heater of choice for many and the new generation of stoves is attracting ever more converts to the fold. The author is a long time devotee and user of woodburning stoves and discusses selecting the right stove for the job, installation, getting the most from the burner, conserving heat, buying second hand and cooking, making this an essential purchase for anyone considering changing to wood as a fuel or looking to improve the performance of an existing installation.