When Technology Fails

Second edition of an encyclopaedic manual designed for self-reliance, sustainability and surviving what James Howard Kunstler calls the long emergency. The 15 chapters make comprehensive practical suggestions that can be adopted in view of prevailing circumstances. The book begins with an introduction to self-reliance and self-sufficiency before discussing with trends and possible futures. Much of this will already be familiar to readers of Richard Heinberg's books reviewed in earlier issues. The next two chapters advise on supplies and preparations, and emergency measures for survival. More specifically, there are chapters on water, food, shelter and buildings and first aid. This followed by an overview of the holistic health movement, clothing and textiles, energy and power, then metalworking, utensils and basic engineering. The final chapter discusses making the shift to sustainability and various initiatives which have moved in this direction. There is specific advice on what we as individuals can do and a discussion of Lester Brown's Plan B reviewed elsewhere in this issue. Throughout the book there are short reviews of other resources to follow up, and a full bibliography at the end. All in all, an essential family reference book.