Ruthie and everyone else you don't need a kindle to read the book there are kindle readers for every platform / type of computer. Just go to Amazon.com and download the kindle reader or download from whatever App Store you use.
Not sure if this one has allready been posted. I found this one searching Amazon on soap making books.
Here is the link. ---> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UJKZSY/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20
I'm still new to soap making and am further my readings before I start.
I believe you could use canola oil to replace the lard and add castor oil to help with the lather factor.