Preparedness
Essential Reads for Every Prepper’s Survival Library
As a dedicated survivalist, my library is a crucial part of my preparedness strategy. Whether in hardback, paperback, or digital form, books provide a wealth of knowledge that can be indispensable in challenging situations. Recently, I inherited a collection from my father that included invaluable insights into construction, gardening, and wildlife, complete with his personal annotations. These notes highlight what worked, what didn’t, and how he adapted ideas to suit different climates and locations.
While I appreciate the convenience of e-books, especially when backed up on an old smartphone stored with a solar charger in a waterproof Faraday bag in my bug-out bag (BOB), they have their limitations. In a grid-down scenario, sharing e-books becomes difficult unless you hand over the device. Additionally, you can only access one book at a time, whereas physical copies allow for simultaneous use and easy sharing.
Here are some essential reads that should find a place in your prepper library:
“Back to Basics,” first published by Reader’s Digest in 1981, remains a classic. It offers straightforward instructions and illustrations on everything from building a log cabin to making preserves and raising chickens.
“Alton’s Antibiotics and Infectious Disease: The Layman’s Guide to Available Antibacterials in Austere Settings” is a simplified guide to using veterinary medications for antibacterial and antifungal needs. It’s tailored for non-medical professionals in disaster and survival settings where modern medicine might be unavailable.
“The Survival Medicine Handbook” is another critical resource. It is hailed as “THE essential guide for when medical help is NOT on the way.” The book is so vital that I keep both the full and abridged versions in hard copy, along with a Kindle version.
“Making the Best of Basics: Family Preparedness Handbook,” first released in 1980, offers timeless advice on preparedness. Although much of its content is now available online, having a physical copy ensures access when digital means might fail.
“The Encyclopedia of Country Living” by Carla Emery is a treasure trove of knowledge on sustainable living. Originating from the back-to-the-land movement of the 1960s, it combines modern wisdom with insights from “old-timers” who shared methods from the late 1800s.
For gardening, consider consulting your local Master Gardener program for regional book recommendations tailored to your specific area and climate zone.
The world of survival fiction also offers valuable insights. “One Second After” has been a catalyst for many to start prepping, depicting a small town’s struggle after an EMP attack. The Pentagon has even cited it as a realistic portrayal of such an event.
“Hatchet,” aimed at younger readers, tells the story of a 13-year-old boy surviving alone in the wilderness. It’s packed with practical survival information and is enjoyed by adults and kids alike.
The “Little House Series,” particularly “The Long Winter” and “Farmer Boy,” provides fascinating glimpses into historical survival techniques. While not documentaries, these stories are based on real experiences.
“Going Home: A Novel” kicks off A. American’s Survivalist Series, chronicling a man’s journey back to his family after an EMP. The series continues with their community’s survival efforts.
“The End: A Postapocalyptic Novel” and “The Jakarta Pandemic” also offer gripping narratives on survival, with the latter feeling eerily prescient given recent global events.
If you have a favorite preparedness or survival book, fiction or non-fiction, feel free to share it in the comments. I’m eager to hear your recommendations!
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