I have both books and would agree with everyone that 'Encore' does cover the basics in addition to giving instructions to making the hollow blocks. But the first book covers octagons which the second doesn't as the hollow blocks only work with hexagons. If you can find a deal to get both then I'd say it's worth it, if you think you'd like to do the hollow blocks, get the second one (Encore), if you like the idea of octagons get the first. :D Have fun and I can't wait to see your first OBW. :D