No, you don't need to spend a fortune to start roasting your own coffee. This kit will get you set up with everything you need to start off in style. Although the Whirley-Pop was designed for popcorn, it also does a great job roasting coffee. We have modified the popper so that it holds a thermometer capable of reading up to 550F degrees, which makes for more consistent roasting results. Check out our Whirley-Pop Tutorial for an easy step-by-step instruction guide (a printed version is also included with this roasting kit). This kit also includes a stylish Bodum 8-cup French Press - a truly gourmet method of brewing specialty coffee. Also included is "Home Coffee Roasting: Romance and Revival" - an excellently written, incredibly informative, and authoritative book written by Kenneth Davids (a big name in the coffee industry). In conjunction with our quick tutorial on coffee roasting, included with the starter kit, you will be roasting like a pro in no time! You get more than you pay for When purchasing a Coffee Starter Kit from us, keep in mind that you purchase more than a book and some equipment. Along with every one of our products we provide a wealth of knowledge and advice. Coffee tasting and roasting notes, product reviews, tutorials, experiment summaries, and phone or email customer support. We are serious about quality coffee and products as well as excellent customer service. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Starter Kit A Includes: - Whirley-Pop Coffee Roaster (w/ Thermometer) - 8-cup Bodum Brazil French Press - Book - Home Coffee Roasting: Romance and Revival - MoreCoffee! Home Roasting Tutorial - Three pounds of quality green coffee beans! Still unsure as to which roaster to start off with? Check out our Which roaster is for you? tutorial!