Well, guess what, the world hasn’t actually ended yet. (Hooray). That being the case, here’s a selection of books that looks at what we can do to prepare ourselves, or better yet, head that day off.
Just in Case: How to Be Self-sufficient When the Unexpected Happens by Kathy Harrison
And here’s a good source of practical advice. This book takes an overwhelming topic and breaks it down into manageable tasks. I also really enjoy Kathy Harrison’s relaxed approached to disaster – she’s not trying to instill panic or paranoia, she’s trying to ensure comfort in the face of the unexpected. It’s also a pretty great handbook in case of zombie apocalypse.
Folks, This Ain’t Normal: A Farmer’s Advice for Happier Hens, Healthier People, and A Better World by Joel Salatin
Oh, Joel Salatin, you fascinating curmudgeon. If the mild and joyful farmer’s memoirs leave you wanting more, jump into the thick of the agribusiness food debate with Joel. He’s challenging, interesting, and highly opinionated. I can almost guarantee that something in this book will tick you off, but some other part will almost certainly prove totally compelling. You may not agree with him, but he’ll certainly give you plenty to think about.
Better Off: Flipping the Switch on Technology by Eric Brende
Initially I was drawn to the book because it is about the author and his wife spending 18 months in a Mennonite community learning about self-sufficiency. That seemed like an extreme experience, and I wanted to know more about the path that took them there and what they learned. It surprised me to discover that this book is less of a memoir and more of a thoughtful contemplation on the role of technology in our lives. The experiment turned out to be far less extreme than I expected, but ultimately far more radical, as they transition back into urban life.
The Town That Food Saved: How One Community Found Vitality in Local Food
by Ben Hewitt
From the title, it sounds like a celebration of the new locavore culture, right? Well, kind of. It’s more of a balanced consideration of the changes happening in a community based in a historical agricultural context. There is an exciting new agripreneurial in Hardwick, VT, but Ben Hewitt spends some time appreciating the sturdy, older food culture that makes the new possible. It’s a fascinating look at how personality and drive can create dynamic change.
How to Build your Dream Cabin in the Woods: The Ultimate Guide to Building and Maintaining A Backcountry Getaway by J. Wayne Fears
When you’re ready to go off grid, you could do a lot worse than consult J. Wayne Fear’s practical and interesting guidebook. He does a thorough job of covering the important factors to consider when investing in property, but tailors the book beautifully to the back country get-away. Very detailed, but also accessible and engaging.
~ Jenny, Central Library
Leave a Comment